By Awodeyi Elizabeth
The Ondo State House of Assembly Committee on Lands and Housing has pledged stronger collaboration to improve land administration and housing delivery in the State.
The assurance was given during the committee’s visit to the State Ministry of Lands and Housing and the Ondo State Development and Property Corporation (OSDPC) in Akure.
The lawmakers commended the Ministry for its numerous ongoing projects across the state, describing them as visible evidence of the government’s commitment to infrastructural development.
Chairman of the Committee, Hon.Chief Abiola Oladapo, praised the Commissioner, Engr.Abiola Olawoye and his team for what he described as “visible achievements everywhere in the state.” He noted that the governor’s confidence in entrusting him with two portfolios was justified, given the impressive progress recorded in ongoing projects.
At the OSDPC, Chief Oladapo assured that the committee would take note of the observations raised, stressing the importance of strong collaboration between the Legislature and the agency to make land and housing more affordable and accessible to the people.
Other committee members, including the Majority Leader, Hon.Chief Olatunji Oshati, Hon.Fasonu Babatunde, andHon. Raymond Daodu, raised questions on how the agency had accessed and utilised its budget in addressing operational challenges.
Welcoming the Committee, the Commissioner for Infrastructure, lands and housing,Engr. Abiola Olawoye outlined key projects under execution. These include the completed Obas Secretariat along Shoprite, a 90 per cent completed remodeling of the Deputy Governor’s residence, and the ongoing construction of the Judiciary Complex.
He further disclosed that construction had commenced on 32 units of four-bedroom terraces for cabinet members, while other projects nearing completion include the new UNIMEDTH Hospital building, remodeling of the Government House gate, perimeter fencing, and furnishing of the Presidential Lodge.
The Commissioner also revealed that architectural designs were underway for new Legislative Quarters and a Legislative Office Complex, following an integrity test which showed that the current Assembly office structure was too weak for renovation. He added that the ministry was also remodeling some other ministries and agencies, with additional plans to construct hostel facilities at the NYSC Orientation Camp in Ikare-Akoko.
Also, the Acting General Manager of OSDPC, Mrs. Nene Ogunleye, expressed delight over the visit, describing it as a demonstration of the Assembly’s commitment to the growth and development of the housing and real estate sector.
She explained that although the corporation had contributed significantly to affordable housing, urban renewal and property management over the years, it was currently facing challenges such as depleted land banks, shortage of professional personnel, obsolete equipment, insufficient operational vehicles, and encroachment from neighbouring communities.
According to her, OSDPC presently has about 13 estates across the state, most of which are fully subscribed. She therefore appealed to the lawmakers for legislative support to enable the corporation to expand its land banks and strengthen operations.
The visit, both parties agreed, provided a platform to discuss strategies for repositioning the housing sector for greater service delivery and socioeconomic advancement of the state.
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