By Ibikunle Kayode
MOWE, OGUN STATE — The Executive Chairman of Obafemi Owode Local Government, Ambassador Adesina 'Lanre Ogunsola, FCPA, has intensified his administration's drive for infrastructure development with the approval of a new asphalt road project in the Imedu Nla community of Mowe, while also calling for stronger security surveillance across vulnerable areas of the council.
During an inspection visit to the proposed project site in Imedu Nla, located in Ofada Ward of the local government area, Ogunsola disclosed that the construction of about 150 metres of asphalt road linking Jalogun Palace Road to adjoining streets would soon commence following the release of approved funds.
The chairman described the project as another milestone in his administration's commitment to improving road infrastructure and enhancing the quality of life of residents. According to him, the road will become the third asphalt road successfully delivered within less than three years of his tenure as chairman of the council.
Ogunsola explained that the project would be executed through direct labour by the Department of Works and Housing of the local government, a strategy aimed at ensuring quality delivery and cost efficiency.
He noted that the initiative aligns with the broader infrastructural development agenda of Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, whose administration has continued to invest heavily in roads and other critical sectors across the state.
"The construction of this road is part of our commitment to bringing development closer to the people. We are determined to continue complementing the efforts of Governor Dapo Abiodun in providing the dividends of democracy to all communities within Obafemi Owode Local Government," Ogunsola said.
The chairman assured residents of other towns, communities and wards that no part of the local government would be neglected, stressing that his administration remains committed to equitable distribution of development projects.
The traditional ruler of Imedu Nla, His Royal Highness, Oba Jimoh Adegbenro Adebayo, Olu Imedu Nla, commended the local government for approving the road project, describing it as a significant intervention that would boost socio-economic activities in the area.
The monarch observed that Mowe occupies a strategic position as a commercial gateway connecting Ogun State with neighbouring economic hubs such as Lagos and Oyo states, adding that improved road infrastructure would greatly enhance business activities and living standards.
Oba Adebayo pledged the continued support of the community to the government and promised residents' cooperation throughout the implementation of the project.
Also speaking, Chief Nurudeen Aina Alowonle, Babaloja of Mowe Market, praised the chairman's developmental strides, particularly the successful completion of two major asphalt roads in Owode and Adigbe.
He described the latest project in Mowe as further evidence of the administration's determination to transform the local government through strategic infrastructure investments.
In a related development, Ogunsola immediately convened a high-level security meeting at his office after the road inspection, where he met with military officers led by Warrant Officer Obi Lawrence.
During the meeting, the chairman expressed concern over security challenges in some parts of the local government and urged the Nigerian Army to intensify patrols and operational presence in identified flashpoints, including Magbon Etido, Ogunmakin, Ajebo, the Interchange axis and other areas facing security threats.
He emphasized the need for proactive measures to curb incidents of banditry, kidnapping and other criminal activities capable of undermining peace and economic growth within the local government.
Ogunsola assured the military authorities of the council's continued support, promising the provision of necessary logistics to strengthen security operations and enhance the safety of residents.
The dual focus on infrastructure expansion and improved security, stakeholders noted, reflects the administration's strategy of combining development with public safety as key pillars for sustainable growth in Obafemi Owode Local Government Area.
