The Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, has stated that the state is among the few in the country capable of thriving without federal support.
Abiodun made this remark in Abeokuta, the state capital, on Saturday at the public launch and commissioning of the Olumo Courts serviced apartments and related facilities.
He noted that his administration’s policies have positioned Ogun as one of the top states in terms of internally generated revenue (IGR).
On 28 October, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reported that the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) collectively generated N2.43 trillion in IGR in 2023, a 26.5 percent increase from the N1.92 trillion recorded in 2022.
“Ogun State generated more revenue than five states in one zone and six in another in 2023, according to a recent report by the NBS,” Abiodun said. “We are among the few states that can succeed without federal support.”
The governor addressed criticisms directed at his administration’s urban renewal initiatives in the Government Reserved Area (GRA) of Ibara, Abeokuta, where Olumo Courts are located.
He commended former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who he credited for championing the project, for bolstering his administration’s commitment to urban transformation in the state.
He encouraged Ogun residents to draw inspiration from the development, which features 36 luxury smart apartments with modern amenities, including a swimming pool, tennis court, gym, and squash court.
“We embarked on the urban renewal of Abeokuta, beginning with Ibara GRA, despite significant criticism,” he said. “The success of Olumo Courts affirms that we are on the right path.”
The governor added that the courts would generate jobs and attract investment, particularly from Nigerians living abroad.
He further explained that the project’s approval process took 17 months due to essential redesigns required to meet urban regeneration standards.
Speaking at the event, former Senator Iyabo Obasanjo highlighted Abeokuta’s unique geographical features, which make it an appealing city poised to welcome the world.
Rotimi Martins, a member of the development team, described the project as the first smart city estate within the GRA.
The Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo, noted in his speech that the courts illustrate how environmental upgrades can drive development.