•GRA Ibara
The Osi-Asoju Oba of Egbaland, Chief Bukola Olopade, has commended what he described as the exceptional leadership and forward-thinking approach of Governor Dapo Abiodun, on the ambitious redevelopment plans for the Government Residential Area (GRA) Schemes in Ogun State.
Olopade, who is the Managing Director of Nilayo Sports Management Limited, said the initiative underscored the governor’s commitment to transforming the state and enhancing the quality of life for its residents.
He added that historically, the GRA in Ijemo Titun known as Ibara GRA has remained a pivotal location within Abeokuta, offering shelter to civil servants since the inception of Ogun State in 1976 even as he also noted that over the years, this prime area was underutilized and undervalued.
The Sports Commissioner during the administration of Otunba Gbenga Daniel, who made this known on Saturday, May 25, in a release seen by The Daily Crucible, said the current administration’s decision to rejuvenate and redevelop the prime real estate space marked a significant step towards harnessing its potential and creating value for the people of Ogun State.
Olopade stated, “This administration has demonstrated remarkable political will by envisioning and initiating the regeneration of Ibara GRA and the Government Housing Units at Idi Aba, among other locations. This project, which spans 40 hectares in Abeokuta alone, is set to deliver modern, smart cities where residents can live and work in a holistic ecosystem. The inclusion of between 4 and 5-bedroom housing units, complemented with world-class infrastructural facilities, is a reflection of the governor’s commitment to excellence and modern urban living.
“This redevelopment not only addresses the urgent need for modern estates across Ogun State, especially in its capital, but also showcases the ingenuity of the government in leveraging Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) to drive its ISEYA initiatives. By prioritizing local content, engaging artisans, suppliers, and developers within the state, this project is poised to create approximately 20,000 direct and indirect jobs within the construction value chain. Such a move, coming around the same time the state is set to host the National Sports Festival is indicative of the administration’s strategic approach to job creation,youth empowerment, and economic development.
“The Governor’s magnanimity and empathy are evident in his directive to prioritize the housing needs of civil servants through flexible options like rent-to-own, outright purchase, and mortgage facilities. This inclusive strategy, which birthed the housing schemes in Kobape, Kemta, Ilaro, Sagamu, and others, ensures that public servants across different income levels can also benefit from the new housing schemes, thereby enhancing their welfare and productivity.”
He therefore, expressed his full support for the visionary initiative and the governor’s efforts to reinvent and redevelop key residential areas within Ogun State.
“This project not only rejuvenates decaying assets but also ensures Ogun State’s sustained positive growth and development.
“The people of Ogun State are indeed fortunate to have a leader who is not only attuned to their needs but also proactive in creating opportunities for a better future. Governor Dapo Abiodun’s administration continues to set a high standard in governance and urban development, reinforcing Ogun State’s status as a model for other states to emulate,” he added.
