By Gloria Ogine, JKNewsMedia Reporter
RISING CONCERNS over security challenges during the festive season have prompted Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State to advocate for enhanced safety measures.
The governor urged security agencies to deploy effective strategies to protect lives and property as residents prepare for Christmas celebrations.
Speaking at a courtesy visit by the newly appointed Commissioner of Police, Lanre Ogunlowo, Abiodun stressed the need for vigilance against opportunistic crimes that often escalate during the yuletide.
He commended the Ogun State Command for its efforts in maintaining peace while noting the importance of sustained inter-agency cooperation to tackle issues such as cultism and cross-border crimes.
At the Ogun State Christmas Carol and Service of Nine Lessons held in Abeokuta, the governor delivered a heartfelt message urging residents to celebrate responsibly.
He emphasised the season’s core values of love, compassion, and giving, encouraging citizens to support the vulnerable and less privileged.
“Christmas inspires unity across divides and reminds us of the timeless values of kindness and faith,” Abiodun said, adding that acts of generosity reflect Christ’s teachings.
Commitment to Sustainable Development
Highlighting his administration’s strides, Governor Abiodun has reaffirmed commitments to inclusiveness and sustainable development.
“We are focused on programmes that spread love and empowerment while preserving cultural heritage,” he said, citing efforts such as revitalising the Adire fabric value chain and fostering youth talent in the entertainment industry.
The service featured readings by state officials and soul-stirring performances by choirs and guest artists. Clerics, including Reverend Nicolas Okoh of CAN and Bishop David Oyedepo, reminded attendees of the spiritual essence of Christmas as a time for reconciliation, peace, and shared humanity.
Abiodun’s broader vision extended to utilising Ogun State’s unique cultural and geographical identity to drive economic growth and harmony.
He pledged continued support for security agencies, including providing modern equipment through the State Security Trust Fund, ensuring Ogun remains a peaceful and thriving state.
Celebrates Renown Artist
Earlier, Bukola Elemide (Asa), the internationally renowned artist from Ogun, visited the governor, expressing pride in her heritage.
Governor Abiodun celebrated her global success as a reflection of Ogun’s talent and vowed to create an entertainment hub to nurture future stars.
The festive season in Ogun highlights not just the joy of celebration but the shared responsibility of creating a secure and united community.
The Governor Dapo also reaffirmed his commitment to completing all developmental projects initiated by his administration.
He emphasized that infrastructure and industrial growth remain his top priorities since taking office.
Governor’s Industrial Revolution Lauded
The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Barrister Ukeyima Akutah, has praised Ogun State for leading the nation’s industrial revolution.
He highlighted the state’s advancements in the Ease of Doing Business Index, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision for industrialization, job creation, and economic prosperity.
Akutah commended Ogun’s infrastructure development efforts, which he said have boosted industrial growth and supported the Federal Government’s transformation agenda.
On Monday, he led a delegation from the Nigerian Shippers’ Council to the Governor’s office in Abeokuta, presenting an Outlined Certificate of Compliance for the Papalanto Inland Dry Port.
This project, flagged off by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Alhaji Adegboyega Oyetola, is set to play a pivotal role in industrial activities in the state.
During the visit, Akutah applauded the Gateway International Agro-Cargo Airport and other major infrastructure projects.
He noted that these initiatives showcase Ogun State as a leader in Nigeria’s industrial revolution.
Governor Expresses Gratitude
Governor Abiodun expressed gratitude for the recognition and the Certificate of Compliance for the Papalanto Inland Dry Port.
He described the port as a critical project aimed at easing congestion in Lagos Ports and driving industrial activities in Ogun State.
Abiodun explained that his administration’s Multi-modal Transportation System would make the dry port an efficient tool for industrial growth.
He noted that Ogun’s focus on financial transparency and creativity has positioned it as one of Nigeria’s top three most viable states, second only to Lagos in internally generated revenue.
Speaking at a recent budget presentation to the Ogun State House of Assembly, Abiodun outlined his strategy of prioritizing projects with high revenue potential and employment generation.
He emphasized that these align with the State Economic Development Plan and Strategy 2021–2025.
The Governor credited his ISEYA mantra (Infrastructure, Social Development, Education, Youth Empowerment, and Agriculture) for reducing the infrastructure deficit inherited from past administrations.
He explained that this agenda is rooted in the seven thematic areas of the Medium-Term National Development Plan 2021–2025, including economic growth, governance, and regional development.
Abiodun reassured Ogun residents that while the government intensifies revenue generation and blocks financial leakages, no additional burdens will be imposed on them.
He recently presented a proposed budget of N1.05 trillion to the State House of Assembly.
The “Budget of Hope and Prosperity” allocates N453.56 billion to recurrent expenditure and N600.98 billion to capital expenditure, emphasizing projects that align with the state’s economic priorities.
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