Connect with us

Development

Ogun To Conduct Multidimensional Human Development Index Survey

Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State

The Ogun State Government is to conduct household surveys to develop a framework that will assist in planning, management, and evaluation of the multi-dimensional poverty human development index.
The survey is expected to go one step further than the NBS’ Multi-dimensional poverty index. The survey will allow the government of Prince Dapo Abiodun to assess the impact of the various policies it has been implementing in the last four and half years in such areas as education, health, job creation, empowerment and other social interventions.
Already, a consultant, E-services Nigeria Limited, has been contracted by the state government to carry out the survey for a 27-week period. The General Household Survey will produce indicators needed for the design and monitoring of the implementation of various State Development Plans (SDPs).
The consultant commenced work on 6 March. They are to work in liason with the Ogun State Bureau of Statistics.
According to the Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Mr. Olaolu Olabimtan, the survey will enable the state government to properly establish baselines on different data points in the state and allow for the implementation of the various strategies already earmarked for execution.
“This is in line with the “Building Our Future Together” mantra of the Prince Dapo Abiodun-led administration, which over the years have executed and implemented various strategies cutting across the ISEYA development agenda.
“In the past five years, under the pillar of infrastructure, our administration has brought development to every ward in the 20 local government areas of the state. We have constructed, reconstructed, and rehabilitated over 500 kilometers of roads across all regions in the state in line with the admnistration’s policy of inclusiveness and determination to abolish erstwhile practices of prior administrations of developing one section of the state at the expense of other sections.
“Similarly, in the energy sector, the administration has installed over 500 transformers across communities through its Community Electrification Project and has improved power supply in the 20 local government areas.
“We have also provided solar street lights, solar boreholes for potable water, and the distribution of solar home kits to rural dwellers.
“The administration has also rehabilitated the Arakanga Waterworks in Abeokuta to ensure a reliable supply of potable water and constructed new water storage facilities as well as expanded the water supply and reticulation network to many streets and neighborhoods in the city of Abeokuta. These completed projects, which are already in use and being enjoyed by residents, will soon be formally commissioned.
“We are currently at the planning stage of expanding the reticulation network into new areas within the state while rehabilitating all our Mini Water Works in othe parts of the state for improved water supply for our people.
“Ogun State is leading the pack in energy transition as we are on record as the first state to deploy Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses in Nigeria and have deployed them in Abeokuta and Mowe/Ibafo to Lagos routes with the aim to cushion the effects of transport fares for our citizens and facilitate movement of people and goods from the rural to urban and vice versa for increased livelihoods for our people,” he said.
The commissioner also spoke on the Gateway Agro-Cargo International Airport, which, along with its allied businesses in the aerotropolis, are expected to generate over 25,000 direct and indirect jobs.
He also noted the government’s investments in automating business processes to improve efficiency and the Ease of Doing Business Index in the state.
The commissioner said education and human capital development remain key priorities of the government with the renovation and construction of over 1,200 classrooms and buildings across all 234 wards in the state, together with over 50,000 new desks and chairs, provision of learning materials, and the implementation of the OgunDigiClass initiative, which utilizes technology for virtual learning.
Olabimtan spoke on efforts to address the shortage of teachers in public schools, with the recruitment of 5,000 teaching interns under the OGUNTEACH program and the recent conversion of 1,000 teachers from the program for permanent employment.
In the same vein, the commissioner noted that the Abiodun-led administration launched the Ogun Job Portal in 2019, which has enabled the government to match thousands of applicants with employment opportunities in the various sectors of the economy.
The government has also rehabilitated, equipped, and staffed 100 primary healthcare centres across the state to provide quality heathcate to the people, he said.
“We’ve implemented programmes to boost the status of women by including them in politics, governance, and economic activities, as well as providing education for girls.
“Through the Oko’wo Dapo Women’s Empowerment scheme, over 50,000 women have grown their businesses, and with additional funding from the Federal Government’s Nigeria for Women Project, the total investment in women’s empowerment now stands at about N1.5 billion,” he said.
In the area of provision of shelter, Olabimtan said the construction of 4,000 housing units, amongst others, are some interventions that the government believes should filter down to improve the living standards of the people of the state.
In addition, government, this year alone, started the construction of 200 units of high-end duplexes at PMB Estate, Kobape through a PPP programme, commenced development of Ibara and Idi Aba GRA Regeneration Schemes, commenced the construction of 200 units of Affordable Housing in Gateway Aviation Village, Iperu, commenced the construction of 250 units of Affordable Housing in Kobape Phase 3 and the construction of 100 units of mixed Housing units at OPIC Estate, Warewa, Isheri
A recent report by BudgIT ranked Ogun State in the 7th position in the 2023 overall Fiscal Performance Ranking and 1st in most improved in Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) among the 36 states and the FCT.
This affirms the position of the state as the investment destination of choice as well as one of the most resilient states.
“We will continue in our drive towards attracting investors by providing the most business-friendly environment through well-thought-out policies assisted and driven by technology,” Olabimtan said.

Business

Dangote Refinery to Power Nigeria’s Economy, End Fuel Scarcity, Save Forex – Gov. Abiodun …praises President Tinubu’s intervention

Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State and Alhaji Aliko Dangote

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, said the commencement of fuel production by the Dangote refinery will strengthen the nation’s economy by eliminating constant shortages and conserving foreign exchange.

Petrol produced from the 650,000 barrels per day Dangote refinery is expected to hit filling stations in the next 48 hours as modalities with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited have been formalized.

Prince Abiodun, in a statement on Tuesday signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Lekan Adeniran, said that with the refinery coming on stream, one of the most significant challenges faced by Nigeria for more than three decades—reliance on fuel importation—will be solved.

According to the statement, with the Warri and Port Harcourt refineries also being prepared to begin production, Nigerians will heave a sigh of relief from constant fuel shortages, while the economy will also receive a boost.

Prince Abiodun praised Alhaji Aliko Dangote for his determination in seeing through the multi-billion dollar projects against all odds.

The governor also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his intervention in ensuring that the refinery comes on stream during his administration.

He praised the President’s commitment to the revitalization of other refineries in the country, which, he said, will drastically reduce fuel prices when all of them start production.

He said: “This significant achievement marks a transformative milestone not only for you as an entrepreneur but also for Nigeria and the broader African continent. The establishment of this refinery represents a pivotal shift in the energy landscape of the region, showcasing the power of vision, resilience, and unwavering commitment to economic development.

“The Dangote refinery is poised to be a game-changer in the production of petrol, addressing one of the most pressing challenges faced by Nigeria: reliance on imported fuel. This dependency has not only strained our foreign exchange reserves but has also hindered our potential for self-sufficiency.

“By producing petrol locally, the refinery will drastically reduce the outflow of foreign currency, thereby strengthening our economy. This move aligns perfectly with the President Bola Tinubu-led administration’s efforts to achieve economic diversification and reduce reliance on oil exports alone.

“Moreover, the economic impact of the refinery extends beyond just fuel production. It is expected to generate thousands of jobs, both directly and indirectly, thus contributing to the reduction of unemployment rates. The ripple effect of this employment generation will invigorate local economies, stimulate growth in ancillary industries, and enhance the livelihoods of countless families across Nigeria.

“In addition to bolstering local employment and economic activity, the refinery’s operations are expected to enhance energy security in Nigeria. With the capacity to produce a substantial volume of petrol, the country will be better equipped to meet its energy needs, reducing the volatility associated with fuel shortages and price fluctuations.

“This stability will inevitably create a more favorable environment for businesses and attract foreign investments, further boosting economic growth.”

Continue Reading

Development

Sanwo-Olu commissions 270 housing units in Egan-Igando

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Thursday, inaugurated 270 units of two-bedroom flats at the Egan-Igando Mixed Housing Estate, Igando-Ikotun Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Lagos.

The project located in the Ikeja Division of Lagos State is Cluster One of the proposed 101 blocks of 846 home units made up of one, two and three-bedroom apartments on a land area of 17.358 hectares to provide decent accommodation for sub-urban dwellers.

The housing project, which defied all efforts at completion for several years, was successfully delivered on Thursday by Governor Sanwo-Olu-led administration to reduce the housing deficit and provide decent accommodation for residents in the State.

The Egan-Igando Mixed Housing Estate (Cluster One) has infrastructural components that include a network of well-structured roads, a well-channeled drainage system, an ingestion station, ample car parks, potable water, a perimeter fence, a central sewage treatment plant, and electricity transformers.

Speaking at the unveiling ceremony, Sanwo-Olu promised to complete the remaining 576 home units in Clusters Two and Three of the Egan-Igando Mixed Housing Estate for more residents to benefit, irrespective of their ethnicity or political affiliations.

Sanwo-Olu, who appealed to beneficiaries to take ownership of the project and protect it from vandals, said his government is ready to partner with the private sector to build more affordable housing estates in Lagos State.

He said, “The completion of this project will address the urgent need for affordable housing and also foster a sense of community and belonging among our residents. This project is designed to cater to diverse economic groups, reflecting a vision of an inclusive society where everyone has a home.

“We must innovate and partner with private investors to bridge the gap, which we cannot do alone. We need to enhance our public and private investments in housing. We must continue to build decent homes. I will like to appeal to future occupants to please ensure good maintenance of these facilities.”

Sanwo-Olu also urged traditional rulers and community leaders to provide more land for the government to build more infrastructure in rural areas.

The Lagos State Commissioner for Housing, Moruf Akinderu-Fatai, said the Egan-Igando Mixed Housing Estate is a landmark project that stands as a testament to Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to providing affordable and quality housing for the residents of Lagos State.

Akinderu-Fatai, who noted that the project experienced a lot of challenges due to a paucity of funds, appealed to the private sector to partner with the Lagos State Government to provide more affordable housing for residents.

The Commissioner disclosed that Sanwo-Olu, in his magnanimity, has graciously approved that all existing subscribers with full payment for either a unit of two bedrooms or three bedrooms be given allocation from Cluster One at no additional fees to the selling price.

Akinderu-Fatai, who noted that the gesture by the governor is to appreciate the trust and commitment of the subscribers over time in Lagos State, said other subscribers with more than 50 percent commitment on the initial selling price shall be considered with an option to balance up at the current selling price.

He said: “This significant occasion marks the completion of 270 units of two-bedroom apartments, a vital step towards alleviating the housing deficit in Lagos, hence bringing succor to the beloved people of the Igando-Ikotun LCDA in Alimosho LGA.

“Today, we are proud to present Cluster 1, with 45 blocks consisting of 270 units of two-bedroom apartments with complimentary infrastructure. We not only celebrate the completion of these units but also the resilience, dedication, and hard work that have brought this vision to reality.

“As we hand over the keys to the new homeowners, we reaffirm our commitment to completing Clusters 2 and 3. We will continue to work assiduously to overcome any challenges, ensuring that every promised unit is delivered. This project is a clear indication that when we combine vision with dedication, the results are transformative.”

Akinderu-Fatai commended Sanwo-Olu for his great determination and unusual support for the housing sector, particularly on the completion and delivery of the Egan-Igando Mixed Housing Estate.

The Chairman of Igando-Ikotun LCDA, Lasisi Akinsanya, and Onigando of Igando Land, Oba Lasisi Gbadamosi, praised Sanwo-Olu for the Egan-Igando Mixed Housing Estate, saying they appreciated the good gesture.

Continue Reading

Business

Ogun To Join Oil Producing States, As Exploration Commences

L-R: Managing Director, SHELL Petroleum Development Company Ltd, Mr. Osagie Okubor; Chief Executive, Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, Engr. Gbenga Komolafe; Minister of State, Petroleum Resources, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri; Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun; his Deputy, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele and the Group Chief Executive Officer, NNPC Ltd, Mr Mele Kyari, during a visit to Ogun State on plans by the Federal Government to start oil exploration in the state.

The quest of Ogun State to be an oil producing State would soon materialize as the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), sets to begin oil and gas exploration in the Gateway State.
Stakeholders in the oil industry, including the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri,
Managing Director, SHELL Petroleum Development Company Ltd, Mr. Osagie Okubor; Chief Executive, Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, Engr. Gbenga Komolafe and the Group Chief Executive Officer, NNPC Ltd, Mr Mele Kyari, stormed Ogun State on Friday on plans by the Federal Government to start oil exploration in the state.
They were received by Governor Dapo Abiodun and his Deputy, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele.
Hon. Lokpobiri, who spoke at the governor’s office, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta said Ogun State has always been part of the Dahomey Basin with prospect of having huge deposit of hyrdro-carbon.
The Minister said: “We decided that we are going to resume exploration in the different Basins; we decided to come to Ogun State to reassure the people that we have very high potential of discoveries here. Ogun has always been part of the Dahomey Basin and our presence underscore the seriousness the federal government attaches to the exploration activities that we want to carry out in Ogun State.”
Hon. Lokpobiri who added that oil and gas remain the quickest way to Nigeria’s economic prosperity, said his team is in the State in continuation of the campaign for exploration activities.
He said the visit was also to demonstrate the seriousness and commitment of the federal government to shore up its revenue through the oil and gas sector.
“Today we are here to tell the people of the federal government’s commitment to ensuring that we continue our campaign and exploration activities across the country. We are doing this exploration activities in several places across Nigeria and today we are in Ogun after which we will proceed to Sokoto State,” he added.
The Group Managing Director, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited,(NNPCL) Mr. Mele kyari, while speaking, said Ogun State is blessed to be in the Dahomey Basin corridor with expected high deposit of oil, assuring that the corporation is coming back in ernest to commence exploration activities, even as he expressed the hope that oil would be found in commercial quantity.
In his remarks, the Executive Director, Nigerians Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, Mr. Gbenga Komolafe, said the coming of the team to Ogun State is to further demonstrate the commitment of the Federal Government to grow the oil reserves and enhanced federation revenue.
“We all understand that Nigeria is very prolific in oil and gas, but then there is still need to grow the reserves through exploration activities given our huge hyrdro-carbon as a bench mark,” he noted.
Komolafe informed that the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) makes provision for the funding of the development of the Frontier Basins, adding that in line with the commitment and the aspirations of the government, the Nigerian Petroleum Regulatory Commission is working in synergy with the NNPCL to leverage on the PIA to aggressively carry out oil exploration in the Dahomey Basin.
“The Dahomey Basin stretches up to Delta, Edo, Ogun and Ondo states. We intend to in the course of this exercise, cover all those states leveraging on the provision of Section 9, Subsection 4 of the PIA. This is good opportunity for the people of Ogun State and it would be complementary to the reforms and transformation initiatives of the governor. We want to congratulate the governor and the people for being the beneficiaries of this initiative,” Komolafe said.
Responding, Governor Abiodun said Ogun State is part of the OPLs 302,303 306, 307, saying the acreages present unique opportunities for the qualification as a Frontier Exploration State as defined in the PIA section 9.
He observed that the history and studies over the years allow any investment under the frontier exploration basin funding to not only realize the oil and gas potentials, but also acquire data that would aid Bitumen exploration and exploitation in Nigeria.
The country, Abiodun maintained holds the second largest reserves in the world of 42,b tons, adding that a lot of studies have shown the potential of the basins, which brings Ogun State to the fore and projecting it towards becoming a beneficiary to achieve commercial success and derive economic benefits from exploration and production within a minimum time schedule.
“It is noteworthy that this is a region of the country that provides ease of access, low entry and operating costs, a safe and welcoming community and a very active state government support and participation.
“Ogun State therefore presents some unique opportunities towards the realization of the full intentions of the PIA section 9 on frontier exploration as it will contribute to guarantee additional petroleum production of additional petroleum products for the country and afford more supply to potential refineries in the area.
“As a low hanging result, this area also presents the opportunity for Bitumen extraction, thereby reducing import dependency and bringing with its savings in foreign exchange expenditure on this single line item,” governor said.

Continue Reading
Advertisement

Trending