"MORE PHASES OF GRA URBAN REGENERATION SCHEME TO BE UNVEILED SOON"- ABIODUN
...Says Ogun’s Renewal Agenda is Redefining the State’s Urban Landscape
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has disclosed that additional phases of the Ibara Government Reservation Area (GRA) Urban Regeneration Scheme will soon be unveiled, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to modern urban renewal and sustainable housing development.
The Governor disclosed this while inspecting the on-going regeneration project in Ibara GRA, Abeokuta, where over 150 housing units have been completed out of more than 200 planned under the current phase of the scheme, described the initiative as a flagship component of the State’s broader Urban Regeneration Programme, which seeks to reposition the capital city as a model of order, aesthetics, and livability. He emphasized that the Ibara GRA project represents a clear demonstration of government’s resolve to restore the integrity of public spaces and provide citizens with world-class housing facilities.
Abiodun recalled that before the commencement of the regeneration effort, the Ibara GRA had deteriorated into a shadow of its original design, with several structures illegally occupied and some converted into criminal hideouts. He noted that through consultations and engagements, the government reached amicable terms with former residents before embarking on redevelopment.
“Some people had turned themselves into landlords, renting out government properties illegally,” the Governor revealed. “But because our intention was not to render anyone homeless, we held multiple town hall meetings and consultations. We managed to achieve what previous administrations either lacked the vision, courage, or political will to do.”
According to the Governor, between 213 and 220 houses were planned under the scheme, to be built either directly by the State Ministry of Housing or through partnership allocations in line with approved designs. “So far, 150 houses have been completed, while others are at various stages of construction. And this is just the beginning,” he said, assuring that subsequent phases would soon commence across the city.
Abiodun also disclosed that similar regeneration projects would be replicated in other Government Reservation Areas across Ogun State, including those in Yewa, Sagamu, Iperu, and Ijebu-Ode. He added that ongoing housing projects in Kobape, Ilaro, and Sagamu form part of his administration’s larger vision to provide modern, affordable housing and redefine the urban landscape.
“We are determined to ensure that our State capital and all urban centres reflect the quality and excellence we stand for. In just six years, we have constructed more roads and housing units than any other administration achieved in sixteen years,” the Governor asserted.
Reaffirming his administration’s focus on delivery rather than distraction, Abiodun dismissed political critics attempting to undermine the government’s record of achievement. “We remain accountable only to the people of Ogun State who entrusted us with their mandate,” he declared. “Our work speaks for itself, visible, measurable, and transformational. And as we unveil new phases of development, we will continue to build a State that works for all.”