By Asaye Bankole
The Ondo State Government is considering plans to introduce Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses and develop low-cost housing estates to ease transportation and accommodation challenges facing public servants in the state.
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa disclosed this on Wednesday through his deputy, Dr Olayide Adelami, during the 2026 Public Service Week and Carnival held at the Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Arcade in Akure, the state capital.
The governor said the proposed initiatives formed part of his administration’s commitment to improving workers’ welfare, strengthening public service delivery and enhancing productivity across government institutions.
According to him, transportation difficulties affect workers’ punctuality, attendance and overall performance, making it necessary for the government to explore practical and sustainable solutions.
He said the proposal to introduce affordable mass transportation, including CNG-powered buses for public servants, deserved careful consideration as part of the administration’s broader workers’ welfare and public service reform agenda.
Aiyedatiwa also acknowledged the difficulties many public servants face in securing decent and affordable accommodation, noting that although the state operates a housing loan scheme, further measures are needed to address the wider housing deficit.
He added that the government would continue to explore feasible options for expanding access to affordable accommodation, including the possible development of low-cost housing estates for workers.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to providing an enabling environment for public servants, stressing that adequately supported and motivated workers were better positioned to deliver efficient services to the people.
Speaking at the event, the state Head of Service, Chief Segun Odusanya, described the Public Service Week and Carnival as an opportunity for workers from different ministries, departments and agencies to interact, strengthen professional relationships and promote unity within the public service.
Odusanya also highlighted initiatives introduced by the current administration to improve efficiency and service delivery across the state’s public service.
In separate remarks, the Ondo State Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Comrade Ademola Olapade, and his Trade Union Congress counterpart, Comrade Clement Fatuase, called for improved workers’ welfare while acknowledging the state government’s efforts in various areas.
The event featured the presentation of awards to outstanding workers across ministries, departments and agencies in recognition of their contributions to public service.
Dignitaries at the occasion included the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti; the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Prince Segun Omojuwa; the Commissioner for Physical Planning, Hon. Sunday Olajide; the Commissioner for Water Resources, Elder Ayodele Akande; and the Commissioner for Commerce, Industries and Cooperatives, Pastor Bola Ademuwagun.
Also present was the Special Adviser to the Governor on Union Matters, Comrade Bola Taiwo, among other government officials.
The proposed CNG transportation initiative and low-cost housing estates are expected to form part of ongoing discussions on improving the welfare and working conditions of public servants in Ondo State.
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