Gov Aiyedatiwa flags off construction of 32 terraced houses for cabinet members

By Precious Oluwole

Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, on Thursday, flagged off the construction of 32 units of four-bedroom terraced residential buildings for cabinet members in the state.

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony held at the Government House Grounds, Alagbaka, Akure, the Governor described the project as a milestone achievement and a strategic step towards addressing the housing challenges faced by members of the State Executive Council.

He explained that, over the years, only a few cabinet members had access to official government quarters with adequate security. The new terraced buildings, he said, will provide modern, secure, and conducive living spaces designed to enhance the comfort, safety, and productivity of government functionaries.

According to the Governor, the estate will comprise 28 units arranged in clusters of modern terrace blocks, complemented by four exclusive stand-alone houses, all within a gated environment that will include a gatehouse and a utility block for effective maintenance. He noted that the project aligns with his administration’s developmental agenda tagged “OUR EASE,” which prioritises infrastructure and welfare for leaders and citizens alike.

While assuring other arms of government and civil servants that similar housing initiatives will be extended to them in due course, Aiyedatiwa urged patience, stressing that plans were already in motion to provide affordable housing schemes for the wider public service.

He charged the contractors, Messrs Cosgrove Investment Ltd., to deliver the project on schedule and in full compliance with approved specifications, with monitoring oversight by the Ministry of Lands and Housing and the State Bureau of Public Procurement.

Earlier in his address, the Commissioner for Infrastructure, Lands and Housing, Engr. Abiola Olawoye noted that the project stands as another testament of Governor Aiyedatiwa’s unwavering resolve to reduce the infrastructural deficit in Ondo State.

According to him, the project has the total area land of 1.4.1 hectares,  32 members of 4 bedroom terraces, and the area for the wall unit is 189.3 square meters.

“The head room is 3.3 meters height, both the ground floor and the first floor. The dining room is about 16 square meters, living room 35 square meters, and the kitchen is about 9.8 square meters. All 4 bedroom is in a suite. There is study room, lounge, and internal rooms across this structure. There is swimming pool, Olympic standard swimming pool”.

While appreciating the Governor for his vision, he urged the contractor to complete the project in time frame. 

In his goodwill message, The Chief Technical Officer, Cosgrove Investment Ltd., Engr. Baba Kalli, stated that the groundbreaking ceremony marks more than the commencement of a construction project, it represents a shared vision, a vision of progress, innovation, and service to the people of Ondo State. 

He appreciated Governor Aiyedatiwa for entrusting the company with the construction of these 32 4-bed terraces for Cabinet members. “We consider this not just a contract but a partnership and a call to excellence. At Costgrove, our core values include, apart from integrity, ambitious innovation, ensuring excellence, and sustainability. We wish to clearly state in this project that we are willing to deliver in time the highest quality standards and complies with construction regulatory requirements.

“To bring innovation and excellence, this project will stand as a symbol of good governance and modern development in Ondo State.  Modern buildings will create an enabling environment for leadership, service, and progress. We assure you that Costgrove will bring to bear its proven expertise in dedicated professionals and its innovative solutions to deliver residences that will make Ondo State proud”.

Also speaking, Chairman, House committee on Lands and Housng, Ondo State House of Assembly, Hon. Biola Oladapo expressed deep appreciation to the Governor, commending his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the welfare of council members. He described the groundbreaking of the new building project as a testament to the Governor’s dedication to fostering unity, productivity, and efficient service delivery in the state.

According to him, the initiative would not only provide a conducive working and living environment for council members but also stand as a lasting legacy of people-oriented governance. He prayed for God’s guidance, wisdom, and strength for the Governor as he continues to steer the affairs of the state to greater heights.

He further noted that the project, once completed, would add prestige and competitiveness to the cabinet, with members proud to serve and enjoy such a befitting residential provision. He emphasized the importance of supporting the initiative to ensure its successful completion, describing it as a unique and admirable stride in governance.

The Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, commended the Governor on his good jobs, urging him to continue with the pace.

In attendance were; The Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami, Speaker, Ondo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji, Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti, Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa, Head of Service, Mr Bayo Philip, Members of the State Executive Council, Members of Ondo State House of Assembly, Traditional rulers, Chairman, Akure South Local Government, Hon. Gbenga Fasua, Chairman, Ondo State Hospitals Management Board, Dr Segun Ategbole, religious leaders, among other top government functionaries.