The Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission has intensified efforts to complete the long-abandoned Omuro International Market in Ode-Ugbo, declaring that the project, which had stalled for over 16 years, is now back on track for delivery before November.
The Executive Chairman of OSOPADEC, Prince Olabiyi Olaleye Poroye, disclosed this during an inspection tour of ongoing projects across the oil-producing communities in the state.
Poroye expressed satisfaction with the renewed pace of work at the market site, noting that the commission was initially disappointed with the level of progress recorded during an earlier inspection.
He, however, said the contractor handling the project had shown fresh commitment and capacity to complete the work within the stipulated period.
According to him, the contractor has been given a maximum of two months to deliver the project, while the commission would continue to provide the necessary support to ensure timely completion.
He said, “We were not satisfied with what we met during our last visit, but the contractor has now demonstrated seriousness and commitment.
With the support we are giving, we believe the project will be delivered as expected.”
The OSOPADEC boss reiterated the commission’s resolve to ensure that all abandoned and ongoing projects within its mandate areas are completed before November.
Poroye also commended contractors handling projects in the difficult riverine communities, particularly those working on jetties and walkways, for sustaining development efforts despite challenging terrain.
Speaking on the significance of the Omuro International Market, he explained that the commission had reviewed aspects of the project’s design to incorporate environmentally sustainable features.
According to him, the initiative aligns with global concerns about climate change and the need for infrastructure projects to promote environmental responsibility.
He further stated that OSOPADEC had already made provisions for future expansion of the market in anticipation of increased commercial activities and the influx of international traders once the facility becomes operational.
The Olugbo of Ugbo Kingdom, Oba Frederick Obateru Akinruntan, lauded Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and OSOPADEC for reviving the abandoned project and pushing for its completion in the interest of the people.
Meanwhile, Poroye also expressed satisfaction with the level of work on the Aboto–Atijere Road project, revealing that about 15 kilometres had already been completed.
He attributed the progress to the determination of both the state government and the contractor to ensure the road project succeeds.
The OSOPADEC chairman equally described the Aboto Water Project as strategic to the development of coastal communities, noting that the over 2MG/day Aboto Water Treatment Plant would provide potable water to several communities upon completion.
He added that plans were underway to replicate similar water schemes in Ese-Odo Local Government Area to improve access to clean water across the riverine communities.
Poroye praised the Ondo State Government for its support towards infrastructural development in the oil-producing areas, stressing that the visible progress recorded across project sites would further motivate the commission to do more for residents.
Discover more from Trace News Magazine
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
