Collaboration Key to Advancing Government’s Vision — Ondo Assembly
By Elizabeth Oyeniwa
The Ondo State House of Assembly has called for stronger collaboration with the Ondo State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (RUWASA) to enhance water projects and improve access to clean water across the state.
The Chairman of the House Committee on Water Resources, Hon. Mutala Suleiman, made the call when he led other members of the committee on an oversight visit to the agency’s headquarters in Akure.
Hon. Suleiman commended the agency for its efforts in water supply and sanitation, noting significant achievements in borehole development and solar-powered water systems.
“The agency’s efforts in water supply and sanitation are commendable, with notable achievements in borehole projects and solar-powered systems,” he said.
He, however, stressed the need for improved synergy among stakeholders.
“We must enhance information sharing and stakeholder engagement to maximize impact. Let us collaborate to promote the government’s vision and improve the lives of our people,” he added.
The lawmaker urged RUWASA to regularly brief the House on project progress and challenges to enable more effective oversight and targeted support.
Hon. Suleiman further assured the agency of the committee’s commitment to developing laws and frameworks that will promote sustainability and community ownership of water projects. He also noted that the House would continue to ensure that government initiatives are properly implemented and communicated to the public.
Earlier, the General Manager of RUWASA, Engr. Rotimi Oladimeji, appreciated the committee for the visit and highlighted some of the agency’s achievements.
“We have made significant progress in water supply and sanitation, with a team of experts, including sanitarians and engineers. Our focus is on providing clean water and sanitation facilities, particularly in schools and public places,” he said.
He explained that the agency has introduced innovative programmes such as OMI-IRORUN and OMI-RORUNDATIWA to expand water access.
According to him, OMI-RORUNDATIWA adopts a community-driven approach where communities request water supply and take responsibility for maintaining the facilities.
Engr. Oladimeji, however, noted that the existing law regulating water supply and sanitation is outdated and requires urgent review.
“We need support to amend the law and ensure effective implementation,” he appealed.
Other members of the committee include Hon. Nelson Akinsuroju, Hon. Kolawole Ologede, Hon. Chris Ayebusiwa, and Hon. Tope Agbulu.
The committee later visited some of the agency’s projects at the Ondo State Children Home, Ondo State Children Correctional Centre , and FUTA Teaching Hospital.
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