Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, is to benefit from the British Government’s ‘Future City Programmme’ that would transform it into a smart city.
Ogun State governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, made this known at the thanksgiving service, held to mark the 15th coronation anniversary of the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo, at the Cathedral Church of St. Peters, Ake, Abeokuta, disclosing that his administration would continue to give the state capital all the attention it deserves.
Abiodun said, “We bidded among so many countries and states to the British Government, which requires us to nominate cities for what they called ‘the Future Cities Programme’ and Ogun State nominated Abeokuta.
“In the entire country and the continent, only 19 cities were selected; in Nigeria, Abeokuta and Lagos were chosen for the programme. This is a programme that is been championed by the British Government.”
Noting that that his administration would not abandon any project left behind by the last administration, Governor Abiodun insisted that only those that have a direct impact on the people would be completed.
He said that one of the completed road projects in the capital city is Fajol-American-Gbonagun road, while the Oke-Lantoro-Elite road, Panseke-Adigbe, Kuto flyover and the Abeokuta-Sagamu expressway, as well as Ijoko-Ota to Isheri roads, were ongoing
He added, “I am proud to say that we have also kept our commitment, that any project that will benefit our people will be given priority, that is why the hitherto abandoned model school in Kobape is now the Tech hub, the same way I have energised the completion of Adigbe road, likewise Kuto-NNPC road, even as we have initiated new projects to make Abeokuta a deserving capital and a modern city.”
He also reiterated the commitment of the present government to the equitable distribution of amenities to all parts of the state, noting that he would leave the state better than he met it.
Describing the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun, as an impartial ruler, who served his fatherland meritoriously in the military, the governor said that the monarch is not only a blessing to Egbaland, but a role model to the present and future generations.
Delivering a sermon, the Diocesan Bishop, Lagos Mainland, Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, Rt. Rev. Akinpelu Johnson, said the oba was anointed by God to serve his people, and admonished him to do what is right to all manner of people at all times.
Taking his verse from first Samuel 16 vs 7 and Romans 13 vs 1-2, the clergyman advised the Alake to seek wise counsel, lead by example, unite his subjects, as well as draw nearer to God, who is the King of kings.
