Six Months of Purposeful Governance: OSOPADEC 10th Board Unveils Scorecards under Prince Poroye in Line with Aiyedatiwa’s OUR EASE Agenda
The Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC) on Tuesday, 30th December 2025, presented a comprehensive account of its achievements over the past six months, reaffirming its commitment to people-centred development, transparency, and inclusive growth under the leadership of its Executive Chairman, Prince Olabiyi Olaleye Poroye.
Addressing a well-attended press briefing, the Chairman described the media as an indispensable pillar of democracy, commending journalists for their role in informing the public, demanding accountability, and strengthening public trust in governance. He stated that the briefing was convened to give a clear and honest account of the Commission’s stewardship, particularly to the people of the oil-producing communities who remain at the heart of OSOPADEC’s mandate.
Prince Poroye noted that the 10th Board assumed office with a clear directive from the Executive Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, to align all interventions with the OUR EASE Agenda—anchored on Opportunity, Urban and Rural Development, and Social Well-being. According to him, the Governor’s message was unambiguous: governance must be transparent, impactful, and deliberately focused on communities that have long borne the burden of oil exploration with limited returns.
To lay a solid foundation for progress, the Board first prioritized institutional stability and trust. One of the landmark achievements highlighted was the resolution of the long-standing litigation between OSOPADEC and Coastville Global Resources, an investment arm of the Commission. The legal dispute, which had posed a significant distraction, has now been resolved with directives issued for the withdrawal of the case—sending a strong signal that the Commission is focused on development rather than distractions.
Under the Social Well-being pillar of the OUR EASE Agenda, OSOPADEC recorded significant strides in healthcare and education. The General Hospital at Agadagba-Obon in Ese-Odo has been completed, bringing much-needed quality healthcare closer to riverine communities. In the education sector, the renovation of 21 public primary and secondary schools across Ilaje and Ese-Odo Local Government Areas is ongoing, with 13 schools already completed, creating safer and more conducive learning environments.
Further strengthening access to education, the Governor approved the completion of three OSOPADEC student hostels at Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology (OAUSTECH), Okitipupa; Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko; and Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo. In addition, the 2023/2024 OSOPADEC scholarships and bursaries were fully paid to eligible students, easing financial burdens and reinforcing education as a pathway to opportunity.
In advancing Urban and Rural Development, the Commission prioritized infrastructure to enhance connectivity, trade, and social integration. The 28.5km Aboto–Atijere Road has recorded measurable progress, while preparatory processes for the 4.72km Ugbo-Nla–Erunna Road (Igbokoda–Ayetoro Road, Phase III) are underway. These projects are expected to significantly improve mobility along the coastal corridor.
To address electricity challenges in riverine communities, OSOPADEC initiated the rural electrification of Ilumeje-Atijere, spanning Igboegunrin, Gbolomi, and Igbobi, currently undergoing approval at the Ondo State Bureau of Public Procurement (ODBPP). Complementing this effort, five transformers (500KVA and 300KVA) have already been installed in Aboto and strategic locations across Igbokoda, set to boost economic activities and improve living standards.
Other notable achievements include the 85% completion of 1,000 metres of concrete walkways in Obe-Nla, enhancing safety and accessibility, and the School of Maritime Transport and Logistics at Ugbo-Nla, also 85% completed, positioned as a strategic investment in skills development and the blue economy.
On accountability and oversight, Prince Poroye disclosed that the Board conducted extensive project tours across OSOPADEC’s mandate areas and ensured prompt mobilization and payment of contractors, including for key projects such as the Omuro International Market, Ugbo-Nla. Addressing environmental concerns, the Commission has initiated plans for shoreline protection and reclamation in Ayetoro and other vulnerable communities, with Obe-Nla approved as a pilot project.
Internally, the Board strengthened institutional capacity through staff promotions, enhanced welfare packages, training programmes, and a Board and Management Retreat held in October 2025, aimed at sharpening focus and improving service delivery.
The Chairman emphasized that the achievements recorded so far represent progress, not the destination, announcing that another round of joint media inspections will commence in January to showcase ongoing projects.
Prince Poroye expressed profound gratitude to Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa for his unwavering support, commended Board members, management, and staff for their dedication, and appreciated the media for their professionalism and partnership. He concluded by reaffirming OSOPADEC’s accountability to the people of Ondo State, particularly those in the oil-producing areas, stressing that every intervention remains firmly about improving lives.
The press briefing was attended by notable dignitaries, including Alhaji Mallon Ogbaru, Hon. Bayo Anifowose, Dr. Henry Omotunde, Rev. Austin Akinola, Kayode Ebiseni, Engr. Alex, Dr. Frank, Engr. Victor Erukubami, Alhaji Nasiru, Barr. Kalejaye Oluwabukaola, Barr. Boye Gbamila, Hon. Taiwo Gbamila, and several other stakeholders.