We’ll prioritise potable water for Ondo’s riverine areas — OSOPADEC chair

The Chairman of the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC), Biyi Poroye, has assured the people of the state’s coastal areas that the provision of potable water will be given top priority across riverine communities.

Poroye stated this during the inspection and assessment of ongoing projects in Ilaje Local Government Area, disclosing that landmark projects will be initiated by the current administration led by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

According to him, ongoing water supply projects will be prioritized in riverine communities, and the construction of a 1,000-meter concrete walkway will soon be completed.

ALSO READ: Tinubu’s support groups, Aiyedatiwa set for clash over 2027 campaign structure

The OSOPADEC boss explained that both the ₦236 million mini water project and the ₦1.7 billion concrete walkway in Obe-Nla, Ilaje LGA, aim to improve the quality of life for residents.

Poroye said, “These projects are not cosmetic; they are life-changing. We will give priority to the provision of potable water in the riverine areas.

“Water is life. Our people deserve access to clean, safe water, and that will be a cornerstone of our work going forward. We cannot live on water and still suffer for clean potable water. This is one of the reasons we embarked on this project.

“This is part of the Aiyedatiwa administration’s strong commitment to inclusive development for the people of the state.”

He added that the water project is designed to produce 20,000 gallons of potable water daily using reverse osmosis technology. The facility is expected to end the community’s longstanding dependence on water sourced from neighbouring Delta State.

Initially valued at ₦82.3 million, the water project was upgraded to ₦236 million to include critical additions such as a generator house, extra boreholes, and water reticulation lines to serve adjoining communities.

“In 2025, no community in Ondo State should be importing sachet water,” Poroye declared. “With the leadership of Governor Aiyedatiwa, we are putting an end to this era of water poverty. Our people will drink from their own land.”

Speaking on the walkway construction in Obe-Nla, he said it became necessary to enable residents to move freely and safely within the community.

He explained that the state-of-the-art concrete walkway, which replaces the fragile wooden bridges used for generations, is flood-resistant, spans 1,000 meters, and is designed to withstand the challenging terrain while linking hard-to-reach communities.

“This is not just a walkway—it’s a lifeline. It connects people, facilitates trade, and shows what’s possible when leadership is intentional. If we replicate this across the riverine belt, we can transform access and mobility within five years.”

Poroye said the project, awarded by Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa in 2024, has already won the admiration of residents and stakeholders who view it as a bold step toward addressing years of infrastructural neglect in the region.

He commended the contractor, Dolban Technical Ltd., and the consultant, Riyadh International Ltd., for maintaining high-quality standards, and urged regional agencies such as the NDDC to adopt the walkway as a model for riverine infrastructure planning.

The contractor assured that the project would be completed within 60 days, and Poroye pledged to invite Governor Aiyedatiwa for the official commissioning once it is ready.

Poroye also hinted at upcoming policy reforms within OSOPADEC to accelerate project delivery, especially in difficult terrains. He stressed that the current 30% mobilization funding often causes delays and should be increased.

“If we increase mobilization to 50%, contractors will remain on site without unnecessary interruptions. That’s what we need to ensure timely delivery.

“Both the Obe-Nla walkway and the Molutehin water scheme are more than infrastructure—they symbolize a new era of responsive governance for Ondo State’s oil-producing communities.

“We’re not just building structures; we’re restoring dignity, ensuring safety, and creating opportunities. That is the vision OSOPADEC is committed to delivering,” he said.

NIGERIAN TRIBUNE