The Ondo State Government has expressed satisfaction with what it described as the swift transformation occurring across its 18 local government areas.

Speaking in Akure after an inspection tour of the councils, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Amidu Takuro, highlighted the progress achieved under Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s administration.

According to Takuro, the local governments have recorded “phenomenal progress” through initiatives such as enhanced road networks, expansion of rural roads, market upgrades, and empowerment programmes for both farmers and youths.

He praised the council chairmen for aligning with the governor’s Our Ease Mantra and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, pointing to notable achievements in infrastructure, health care, education and economic development.

“We are glad that the local governments are alive to their responsibilities. Some have built markets, provided solar power, potable water, fixed bridges and graded rural roads. They have also engaged our youths in agriculture to ensure food security and create employment,” Takuro said.

The commissioner added that the councils are working hand-in-hand with security agencies to protect lives and property at the grassroots level, while also prioritising the enhancement of primary health care facilities across the state.

According to him, “the councils have invested in critical infrastructure, including dredging waterways, clearing drainages and grading roads, to prevent flooding.” He further explained that council chairmen have been cooperating with the Ministry of Environment, supported by a technical adviser appointed by the governor, to tackle persistent flooding issues.

Takuro also revealed that the 18 local governments had collectively saved about N15 billion to fund capital projects within their jurisdictions. He recalled that the government had collaborated with anti-graft and anti-corruption agencies to train council leaders and senior officials in transparency and accountability regarding revenue generation in the local governments.