In alignment with the “OUR EASE” development agenda and the vision of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for inclusive growth across Ondo State, the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC) has proposed a bold N33.86 billion budget for the 2025 fiscal year.
The Commission recently held a consultative forum with traditional rulers, community leaders, political and religious figures, and youth and women representatives from oil-producing communities. The two-day engagement in Igbekebo and Igbokoda—headquarters of Ese-Odo and Ilaje Local Government Areas respectively—was part of a participatory budgeting process to assess the communities’ pressing needs.
Princess Abike Bayo-Ilawole, Secretary of OSOPADEC, emphasized the importance of sustained dialogue with stakeholders, stating that such interactions are crucial for sustainable development in the mandate areas.
Tasked with managing 40% of the 13% oil derivation fund allocated to Ondo State, OSOPADEC focuses exclusively on the development of Ilaje and Ese-Odo LGAs. Governor Aiyedatiwa has reiterated his commitment to ensuring full remittance of these funds to the Commission.
According to Allen Sowore, Esq., the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Strategic Communication, the proposed budget demonstrates the administration’s determination to bridge development gaps in oil-producing areas and restore confidence among the people through transparency and accountability.
The 2025 proposal more than doubles the previous year’s N16.5 billion budget, of which only N7 billion was accessed due to fiscal challenges—achieving just 18% of budgetary targets. Nevertheless, OSOPADEC delivered key projects, including the 32.725 km Alape-Araromi Road rehabilitation, the 1 km Igbotu township road, educational support, and welfare stipends for the elderly and physically challenged.
Of the proposed N33.86 billion, N29 billion is allocated for capital projects, with N4.86 billion earmarked for recurrent expenses. Major initiatives include:
– Construction of the third phase of the UgboNla–Aiyetoro Road (UgboNla–Eruona)
– Completion of the General Hospital at Agadagba-Obon
– Rehabilitation of the Maritime and Logistics School in Ugbonla
– Development of multiple jetties and walkways Shoreline protection and sand filling in coastal communities
The budget also targets inland infrastructure, with roadworks planned in Igbokoda, Atijere, Igbekebo, and Sabomi. Additionally, it supports youth empowerment programmes, the establishment of ICT centers in schools, and sustained bursary and scholarship schemes for tertiary students.
Hon. Oluwatoyin Allen, Chairman of the Ondo State House of Assembly Committee on OSOPADEC, lauded the Commission’s inclusive budget planning approach and announced the rollout of performance monitoring mechanisms in both LGAs to ensure proper execution.
Local government chairmen Hon. Oripenaye Maurice (Ilaje) and Hon. Caleb Molos (Ese-Odo) pledged full support for the Commission and the Governor’s developmental agenda.
Traditional leaders including Oba Oluwasegun Akinyomi, the Amapetu of Mahinland, and Oba Professor (Deacon) Sunday Adejimola Amuseghan (Lawe II), the Kalasuwe of Apoi, also pledged their support. They urged OSOPADEC to place emphasis on job creation, healthcare, education, electricity, and infrastructure.
