Osun Govt allocates ₦2bn to complete 267 micro projects

By Deborah Oladejo, Osogbo

The Osun State Government has allocated ₦2 billion to complete 267 micro projects across the state. These projects are designed to address a range of community needs, including facilities for persons with disabilities, and are part of the ongoing Osun Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus (Osun CARES) initiative.

Speaking at a media engagement on the Programme for Result (PforR) under the Osun CARES (DLI 1.4) program, organized by the Osun Community and Social Development Agency (CSDA), the General Manager of the agency, Mrs. Funmi Abokede, highlighted the state’s commitment to development. She emphasized that Governor Ademola Adeleke’s administration has consistently supported these micro projects, underscoring its dedication to improving the lives of residents across the state.

Abokede detailed that the projects funded under Osun CARES encompass various sectors, including education, healthcare, water supply, and sanitation through the provision of VIP toilets. She also noted that Osun State stands out as the only state in Nigeria with a dedicated center for people with disabilities, where individuals can showcase their skills in various trades. This initiative has attracted attention from other states, which have visited Osun to replicate the model.

Mrs. Abokede appealed to the state government for increased funding to enable the execution of more micro projects, particularly in rural areas. She assured Governor Adeleke of the agency’s unwavering support in the development of these communities.

In his remarks on “Social, Environmental, and Grievance Issues in PforR,” the Operations Manager of Osun CSDA, Mr. Felix Akinwande, emphasized the importance of careful planning in addressing social and environmental concerns related to the projects. He warned that inadequate planning could lead to grievances and complaints from affected communities. Akinwande urged beneficiary communities to ensure that identified and designed projects do not inadvertently harm people or the environment.

Mr. Joel Adedokun, the Administrative and Supplies Manager, also spoke on “Project Maintenance and Sustainability.” He called on stakeholders to take an active role in monitoring and maintaining the Osun CARES projects within their communities. “Project maintenance and sustainability are the shared responsibility of the various communities, groups, and relevant stakeholders in the state,” he stressed.