A fresh wave of optimism sweeps through Ondo State’s oil-producing areas today as Prince Biyi Olaleye Poroye will be officially inaugurated as the Executive Chairman of the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC) by Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa.
This moment willbmark the beginning of a new chapter for OSOPADEC and the long-marginalised riverine communities, who have long awaited purposeful leadership and sustainable development.
A native of Mahin in Ilaje Local Government Area, Prince Poroye is deeply rooted in the realities of the people he now serves. However, his strength goes far beyond lineage. With a career built on political strategy, youth empowerment, community development, and public service, he stands out as one of the most capable hands ever entrusted with the leadership of the commission.
Known for his quiet but effective style, Poroye has consistently championed progressive ideals and delivered results at the grassroots level. As a former Special Adviser on Political Matters, he skillfully bridged government and communities during sensitive political times, stabilising youth relations and pushing for inclusive policies across the Southern Senatorial District.
A seasoned political strategist, Poroye has played key roles in electoral victories and policy advocacy within the state, earning him the respect of both political elites and local communities.
His footprint in community development is extensive — from youth training and education scholarships to economic empowerment schemes that have touched lives across Ilaje, Ese-Odo, and neighboring areas. He has also been a trusted mediator in local disputes, relying on dialogue with elders and traditional leaders to maintain peace.
Even before his appointment, Poroye was a loud voice on issues affecting the oil belt: environmental degradation, oil spillage, and the region’s underdevelopment. He has long pushed for a greater federal presence and fairer resource allocation for oil-producing areas.
Now at the helm of OSOPADEC, the stakes are high. The people yearn for improved infrastructure — roads, healthcare, potable water, and coastal protection. Expectations are also high for expanded scholarship schemes, skills acquisition, ICT training, and economic revival through fishing, boat building, and eco-tourism.
Poroye is also expected to lead collaborations with federal agencies and oil companies to reverse the environmental and economic decline in the coastal zone.
Above all, he is tasked with restoring public confidence in OSOPADEC — transforming it from a sluggish bureaucracy into a force for direct community development.
With his blend of political insight, administrative competence, and emotional connection to the people, Prince Poroye appears primed for the task. He has already begun informal consultations with stakeholders to build a people-focused development blueprint for his tenure.
To many in Ilaje and Ese-Odo, he represents more than a political appointment — he is a long-awaited answer to years of neglect and stagnation.
The challenges are many, but so are the possibilities. And if Prince Poroye’s track record is any indication, a season of true transformation may finally be within reach for Ondo State’s oil-producing communities.
