Abiodun promises to increase tempo of development in Ogun

Gov. Dapo Abiodun of Ogun says the “phenomenal strides” experienced in the state in the last four years under his watch are in fulfilment of his promises to the people.

Abiodun spoke in Abeokuta on Thursday during the Egba Division Town Hall meeting, in preparation for the 2024–2026 Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) and the 2024 Appropriation Bill.

The Governor, represented by his Deputy, Mrs Noimot Salako-Oyedele, said the pace of development could only be increased.

“The policies and programmes of this administration are in the best interests of the majority of the citizenry, irrespective of ethnic, religious or political affiliation or social status.

“The degree of commitment to good governance and speedy development is a clear demonstration of my administration’s resolve to continue to be fair, just, accountable, transparent and equitable,” he said.

Abiodun reiterated that his government would continue to accord the people of the state an important position in the demonstration of the sincere commitment to good governance.

Speaking also, the Commissioner for Finance and the Governor’s Economic Adviser, Mr Dapo Okubadejo, said: “Government is committed to adopting increased budgetary and inclusiveness in its drive to move the state forward.”

Okubadejo, who delivered a goodwill message, noted that the meeting resulted from a sincere commitment of the administration to good governance.

“Government will continue to adhere to its policy thrusts and formulate policies that will lead to direct benefits of the citizens of the state.”

Okubadejo said the Abiodun-led administration was adopting increased transparency, inclusiveness and bottom-up engagement in the budget process and fiscal discipline, and discouraging extra-budgetary expenditure.

Also, Mr Olaolu Olabimtan, the Commissioner for Budget and Planning, stated that the state government’s vision was to deliver good governance and complete all ongoing projects and implement new ones.

He revealed that 215 projects were completed within the last 12 months in Egba Division.

In his remarks, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo, the Alake of Egbaland, thanked the state government for including royal fathers in all its programmes and policies.

Gbadebo, represented by the Osile of Oke-Ona, Oba (Dr) Adedapo Tejuoso, urged the state government to take more proactive steps towards fixing the Lagos-Abeokuta road.