The Governor of Dapo Abiodun has issued a strong call to traditional rulers across Ogun State to foster an investor-friendly climate, warning that hostility toward prospective investors could derail the state’s economic ambitions.
Speaking on Thursday at the Statutory Meeting of the Ogun State Council of Obas held at the Oba’s Complex in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, the governor expressed deep concern over reports of uncooperative attitudes from some host communities, particularly in Yewa South, Ipokia, and Ijebu North.
Abiodun described such behavior as counterproductive, noting that investors willing to commit substantial capital to the state should be welcomed rather than discouraged.
“We have received disturbing reports about the conduct of some communities during recent investor engagements. This is unacceptable,” the governor said. “These investors are bringing in significant capital that will transform our economy, create jobs for our people, and improve livelihoods. They must be welcomed and supported.”
The governor emphasized that attracting and retaining investment is critical to job creation, infrastructure development, and overall socio-economic growth. He urged traditional rulers to take ownership of development efforts within their domains by ensuring peace and cooperation among their people.
Addressing the monarchs, Abiodun said, “Kabiyesis, I urge you to work closely with your people to create an enabling environment for investors. Development cannot thrive in an atmosphere of hostility and distrust. We must position Ogun State as a preferred investment destination.”
He reiterated his administration’s commitment to protecting investments and warned that any actions capable of discouraging investors would not be tolerated.
Beyond economic matters, the governor also raised concerns about security, calling for increased vigilance among residents and traditional institutions amid rising insecurity in parts of the country. He urged communities to promptly report suspicious activities to security agencies, stressing that maintaining peace is a collective responsibility.
While acknowledging the efforts of Bola Ahmed Tinubu in addressing national security challenges, Abiodun noted that local cooperation remains vital in sustaining Ogun State’s relative peace.
The governor also cautioned traditional rulers against indiscriminate land allocation and involvement in land disputes, describing land as a valuable economic asset that must be handled with transparency and integrity.
“Our land is our oil. It must not be allocated carelessly. We must ensure that land matters are handled transparently and responsibly to attract and retain genuine investors,” he stated.
In a related directive, Abiodun warned landlords against leasing properties to individuals involved in criminal activities, adding that any building found to be used for unlawful purposes would face demolition.
Earlier in his remarks, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Ganiyu Hazmat, explained that the meeting—the first of its kind in 2026—was convened to deliberate on critical issues of security and development, while strengthening collaboration between government and traditional institutions.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Council and Paramount Ruler of Yewaland, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, commended the governor for his developmental initiatives and reaffirmed the council’s support for policies aimed at economic growth and stability.
A major highlight of the meeting was the presentation of 40 utility vehicles to traditional rulers, aimed at enhancing their administrative efficiency and improving community engagement across the state.
With the renewed call for cooperation, stakeholders say the success of Ogun State’s economic drive now rests significantly on the synergy between government, traditional institutions, and host communities.
