By Our Reporter 

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has approved a record-breaking N33.8 billion budget for the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC) in the 2025 fiscal year, signalling a bold commitment to transformative development in the state’s oil-bearing communities.

Speaking at the inauguration of the Commission’s newly constituted board on Monday at the Cocoa Conference Hall, Akure, the Governor charged the members to deliver tangible progress in line with his administration’s “OUR EASE” policy founded on Access, Service, and Empowerment.

Governor Aiyedatiwa said the occasion marked a significant new chapter for OSOPADEC, now revitalised by a recent amendment to its governing Act, which he signed into law to enhance the Commission’s efficiency, transparency, and service delivery.

The approved budget, the highest in the Commission’s history, will drive critical projects across infrastructure, education, healthcare, water supply, housing, and social welfare.

It will also boost youth and women empowerment, scholarships, and vocational training programmes tailored to the needs of the Ilaje and Ese-Odo Local Government Areas.

Highlighting the urgency of the assignment, the Governor urged board members to embrace their roles as a solemn call to service, stressing that while his administration will provide full support, such backing will depend on their transparency, integrity, and measurable performance.

He further encouraged traditional rulers, youth groups, civil society organisations, and development partners to rally behind the new board to ensure the Commission fulfils its mandate.

“This is a bold statement that OSOPADEC will not only function under this administration but will also flourish,” Aiyedatiwa declared. “Let this be the beginning of a new dawn, one where government works truly for the people.”

The new Chairman of OSOPADEC, Prince Biyi Olaleye Poroye, responding on behalf of the board, thanked the Governor for the trust bestowed upon them and pledged their total commitment to the Commission’s mission.

The inauguration was witnessed by key state dignitaries, including Deputy Governor; Dr. Olayide Adelami, Chief Judge; Justice Olusegun Ayedun, House of Assembly Speaker; Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji, Chief of Staff; Prince Segun Omojuwa, Head of Service; Mr. Bayo Philip, top government officials, lawmakers, traditional leaders, and political stakeholders.