By Olivia Ambrose, JKNewsMedia Intern
OGUN STATE Governor Dapo Abiodun has credited federal approval for Nigeria Customs facilities in the state.
He described it as a significant step towards enhancing the state’s industrial potential.
He spoke at the 38th Akesan Day celebration in Ikenne Local Government.
The governor outlined infrastructure projects designed to position the state as Nigeria’s industrial hub.
He also announced the completion of the Special Agro-Processing Zone at the Gateway International Agro-Cargo Airport by late 2025.
According to the governor, this zone, one of six federal government-approved zones, will feature advanced aviation equipment, placing it among the world’s top facilities.
Abiodun said he is also committed to people-centred policies, stating his administration would continue implementing projects to attract investments and ensure development.
He described Akesan Day as a cultural celebration that fosters unity and progress in Ikenne.
The event drew dignitaries, including APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, who praised Abiodun’s infrastructure legacy, and Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, who commended the governor’s commitment to transforming Ogun into a commercial powerhouse.
Training for Automotive Artisans on CNG Conversions
OGUN STATE has begun training automotive craftsmen across its three senatorial districts on mechatronics and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) engine conversions.
This initiative, organised under the World Bank-assisted Ogun State Economic Transformation Project (OGSTEP), aims to modernise skills and improve artisans’ relevance in the evolving automotive industry.
OGSTEP’s Skills Sector Project Manager, Fatai Osunsanya, said the training, which started three months ago, includes auto-mechatronics, digital literacy, health, and safety measures.
The programme’s CNG component equips participants with skills to design and install fuel systems compliant with safety standards.
Lead Facilitator Osokoya Babatunde emphasised that the initiative promotes CNG as a viable alternative, not a replacement, for petrol engines.
Trainees, selected from various clusters, expressed gratitude for the programme, pledging to share their knowledge within their communities.
The training aligns with Ogun State’s broader economic goals of equipping its workforce with advanced skills for sustainable development.
Boosts Support for Gender-Based Violence Survivors
The Ogun State Government has reinforced its commitment to aiding Gender-Based Violence (GBV) survivors by enhancing staff capacity at Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs).
Through a five-day training organised by OGSTEP and the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, state workers received critical skills for managing GBV cases.
Permanent Secretary Mrs Adejumoke Adewole highlighted the initiative’s alignment with the global 16 Days of Activism Against GBV campaign, urging participants to implement trauma-informed care and professional support.
The campaign, beginning with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and concluding on Human Rights Day, emphasises safeguarding survivors.
OGSTEP Project Coordinator, Mrs Mosun Owo-Odusi, noted that the state had rehabilitated four SARCs in Abeokuta, Sagamu, Ijebu-Ode, and Ilaro.
Facilitators focused on skills such as forensic evidence collection, case management, and data privacy protocols.
Participants expressed optimism that the training would enhance their capacity to provide trauma-sensitive, efficient services, strengthening the state’s approach to combating GBV.
