Ogun state can thrive without federal support, says Dapo Abiodun

Dapo Abiodun, governor of Ogun, says the state is one of the few that can prosper without the federal government’s support.

Abiodun spoke in Abeokuta, the state capital, on Saturday at the public launch and commissioning of the Olumo Courts service apartments and related facilities.

He said his administration’s various policies have positioned Ogun among the top states in internally generated revenue (IGR).

On October 28, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reported that the 36 states and the federal capital territory (FCT) recorded N2.43 trillion in IGR in 2023.

This amount, the NBS said, is 26.5 percent higher than the N1.92 trillion generated in 2022.

“According to a recent report by the National Bureau of Statistics, Ogun state generated more revenue than five states in one zone and six in another in 2023,” Abiodun said.

“We are among the few states that can thrive without federal support.”

The governor addressed criticism directed at his administration’s urban renewal projects in the government reserved area (GRA) of Ibara Abeokuta, where the Olumo courts are located.

He praised former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who he said championed the project, for strengthening his administration’s resolve to transform urban areas in the state.

He urged Ogun residents to draw inspiration from the project, which features 36 luxury smart apartments with modern amenities, including a swimming pool, tennis court, gym, and squash court.

“We initiated the urban renewal of Abeokuta, starting in Ibara GRA, despite facing substantial criticism,” he said.

“The achievements of Olumo courts reaffirm that we are on the right track.”

The governor said the courts would create jobs and attract investment, especially from Nigerians abroad.

He explained that the project’s approval process took 17 months due to necessary redesigns to meet urban regeneration standards.

Speaking at the event, Iyabo Obasanjo, a former senator, said Abeokuta’s unique geographical features make it an attractive city ready to welcome the world.

Rotimi Martins, a member of the development team for the courts, described the project as the first smart city estate in the GRA.

Adedotun Gbadebo, the Alake of Egbaland, noted that the courts illustrate how environmental upgrades can drive development.