Governor Dapo Abiodun has reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to addressing the developmental neglect of Ogun West Senatorial District, a region historically overlooked by past governments. Speaking during the grand finale of the 2023 Oronna Day Celebration in Ilaro, Yewa South Local Government Area, the governor underscored his achievements in the zone and his plans to continue fostering growth.

Describing Ogun West as a vital economic hub for the state, Governor Abiodun highlighted its significance as the largest non-oil revenue generator and food basket of Ogun State. Yet, he acknowledged the long-standing lack of attention it had received.

“When I assumed office, I realized that previous administrations had not given this zone the recognition and development it deserved,” he said. “Kabiyesi the Olu of Ilaro reminded me that groundbreaking ceremonies were common here, but no projects were ever commissioned. I promised to change that narrative, and we have.”

Governor Abiodun emphasized his administration’s commitment to completing tangible projects in the area. Among the notable achievements, he highlighted the reconstruction of the Ilaro-Owode Road, which connects Yewa South to Ado-Odo-Ota and five other local government areas.

“This road, which used to take two and a half hours to traverse, now only takes a few minutes,” he explained. “We have commissioned at least one road in every local government in this zone, with some benefiting from multiple projects.”

The governor also pointed to the completion of one lane of the Atan-Lusada-Agbara dual carriageway, with work ongoing to finish the second lane. Ogun West, he noted, is home to critical assets, including the Agbara Industrial Estate, which houses approximately 500 industries, as well as the state’s largest limestone deposits and cement factory.

Governor Abiodun lauded the contributions of local leaders and stakeholders. He praised the Olu of Ilaro, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, for his dedication to the progress of Yewaland, and commended Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola for implementing projects that have significantly improved the lives of residents.

He also appealed for continued collaboration between the government and the community, emphasizing that development requires collective effort. “Government alone cannot do everything. We need your partnership to build a better Ogun West,” he said.

The event also drew notable dignitaries, including Deputy Senate President Senator Barau Jubril, who applauded the state government’s initiatives to mobilize communities for development. He highlighted the cultural and economic potential of the Oronna Day celebration, noting its alignment with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“This celebration is not just about cultural preservation but also a tool for development and foreign exchange earning,” Jubril said.

Similarly, Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, represented by Senator Iyabo Anisulowo, praised the event as a platform for heritage celebration and unity.

In his remarks, the Olu of Ilaro expressed gratitude to Governor Abiodun for fulfilling his promises of extending development to Ogun West. He urged the governor to prioritize the commissioning of the housing estate in the town, further boosting the area’s infrastructure.