Landmark Projects Built by Oyo LGs — Ojo

Oyo State Local Governments Make Significant Contributions to Development

Oyo State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Ademola Ojo, has highlighted the substantial contributions made by local governments in the state over the past two years of Governor Seyi Makinde’s second term. These efforts include the construction of landmark infrastructure, health facilities, and educational institutions across the 33 local government areas.

Despite some misconceptions about the activities of councils, Ojo emphasized that they have actively collaborated with the state government to implement key projects throughout the region. This collaboration was underscored during the Omituntun 2.0 Inter-Ministerial Briefing, where he shared details about the ongoing initiatives and achievements of the local governments.

Education and Scholarship Programs

One of the significant contributions from the local governments is their commitment to education and human capital development. Each year, the 33 local governments sponsor a total of 429 indigent students to pursue higher education at various institutions within and outside the state.

The sponsorship includes:
– Six students per council to the Senator Abiola Ajimobi Technical University.
– Five students each for Nursing, Community Nursing, and Midwifery programs.
– Two students per council to a technical college.

Additionally, each local government sponsors five youths under the Youth Entrepreneurs in Agribusiness Programme (YEAP) to study different areas of agribusiness in Nasarawa State and the School of Forestry. These programs aim to equip young people with skills that can drive economic growth and development in the state.

Infrastructure Development

Ojo also outlined several key infrastructure projects undertaken by the local governments. These include:

• The rebuilding of the collapsed Olodo Bridge in Egbeda Local Government.
• The construction of the Farmers’ Market in Akinyele Local Government.
• The construction of the ultramodern Olubadan Palace.
• The ongoing upgrading of 66 Primary Healthcare Centres.

Other notable projects include the rehabilitation of the 14km Eruwa-Maya Road, limited rehabilitation of the 62km Igboora-Igangan-Elekookan-Iganna Road, and the rehabilitation of the Oremeji-Agugu Express-Oremeji-Babanla Church Road in Ona Ara Local Government. Additionally, Primary Healthcare Centres in Tech-U and LAUTECH Iseyin are being constructed.

Financial Management and Coordination

The Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters plays a crucial role in coordinating the affairs of the 33 local governments and the LCDAs. It manages their finances and ensures the welfare of elected and appointed officials, civil servants, and pensioners through the payment of salaries, pensions, gratuities, and allowances.

According to Ojo, the constitutional provision of the State-Local Government Joint Account means that the state is responsible for overseeing the deployment of resources for projects and responsibilities across councils. Governor Makinde has ensured that these resources are used judiciously for the benefit of the residents of Oyo State.

Collaboration and Project Approval Process

Ojo explained that while local governments have the authority to execute projects within their approval limits, larger projects require coordination with the state government. The process involves submitting project proposals to the State-Local Government Joint Allocation Committee (JAAC), which oversees the allocation of funds from the federation account.

Once a proposal is submitted, an Engineering Consultant evaluates the project and provides a cost estimate. If approved by the governor, the project can proceed. This structured approach ensures transparency and accountability in the use of public funds.

Traditional Institutions and Cultural Development

In addition to infrastructure and education, the local governments have also played a vital role in supporting traditional institutions. Between 2023 and now, several chieftaincy appointments and coronation ceremonies have been organized, including those for the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Alaafin of Oyo, Soun of Ogbomoso, Aseyin of Iseyin, and Eleruwa of Eruwaland.

These efforts reflect the governor’s support for traditional institutions, which, according to Ojo, helps reduce threats at the local and grassroots levels. By empowering traditional leaders, the state fosters stability and community cohesion.

Training and Support for Local Government Workers

The Ministry is also responsible for training local government workers and paying the remunerations of local government workers, retirees, and political functionaries. This ensures that the administrative machinery operates efficiently and effectively.

Through these comprehensive efforts, Oyo State local governments continue to make meaningful contributions to the development and well-being of the state. Their collaborative spirit with the state government ensures that resources are utilized optimally, leading to tangible improvements in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and cultural preservation.