By Ignatius Ushie
President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed the desire of his government to continue implementing genuine government policies that would help to tackle problems affecting Niger Deltans and make life more meaningful to them.
According to a statement made available to Transport Day, President Buhari who was represented by the Hon. Minister of State, Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, Sen. Omotayo Alasoadura, made this statement during the commissioning and handing over of the Erosion control and road improvement works to Ondo State Government, at the project site in Owo LGA of Ondo State.
The President noted that the Erosion Control of Flooded Area/Road project was one of the Ecological Intervention Projects approved and executed by the Federal Government through the Ecological Fund Office, in the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), for the good people of Owo and its environs.
According to Buhari “The implementation of the project underscores my Administration’s efforts to continue carrying out genuine government policies and as a testimony to ensure that no part of the country would be neglected due to its geographical location or Political consideration” adding that “The completion of this project shows my determination and sincerity of purpose in tackling problems affecting its citizens and making life more meaningful to the people,” he added.
While urging the people to take advantage of the usefulness of the project, Mr. President admonished the people of the area to cherish the laudable project by preventing indiscriminate dumping of refuse in drainage channels.
Speaking during the event, the Governor of Ondo State, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, highlighted the devastating effects of erosion and flooding on the people. Akerodolu said flooding in the area had caused pollution, decline in agricultural output and untimely death of many children in the past, but the timely intervention and completion of the erosion and road works by the Federal Government has changed the situation. The Governor was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Princess Oladunni Odu.
Earlier in his welcome address the Permanent Secretary, Ecological Fund Office, Abuja, Dr. Habiba Lawal, who was represented at the occasion noted that the Erosion control work was initiated by the late Imperial Majesty Oba (Dr.) David Folagbade Olateru Olagbegi III (CFR) in order to arrest the continuous erosion, flooding and other ecological challenges in Owo town and its environs to avoid further environmental degradation, loss of lives and properties.
In his remarks, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye lll, the Olowo of Owo Kingdom said they are happy to have witnessed the beginning and completion of the project and conveyed the appreciation of the people of Owo to the Federal government.
