Lawmakers Endorse Gov’ Aiyedatiwa’s Land Reforms, Pay Visit To Ministry, OSDPC
The Chairman of the Ondo State House of Assembly Committee on Lands, Housing and Infrastructure, Hon. Biola John Oladapo, on Thursday led members of his committee on a familiarisation visit to the Ministry of Lands and Housing as well as the Ondo State Development and Property Corporation (OSDPC).
In a statement signed by his Special Assistant on Media, Kabiru Bola Okunoye, he listed other members of the committee on the visit as the Majority Leader, Hon. Chief Olatunji Oshati, Hon. Fasonu Babatunde, and Hon. Raymond Daodu.
Oladapo explained that the visit was designed to strengthen collaboration between the legislature and institutions driving land administration, housing delivery, and infrastructural development in the state.
At the Ministry of Lands and Housing, the committee was received by the Commissioner, Engr. Ayorinde Olawoye (FNSE, FNICE).
Addressing the ministry, Oladapo underscored the need for transparency, innovation, and sustainable practices in land management.
He praised the ministry’s ongoing efforts but urged further reforms to simplify land acquisition and stimulate housing sector investment.
The committee chairman also commended Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa for his relentless commitment to land reforms and housing development, citing landmark projects such as the ongoing judicial complex, the completed Obas’ Secretariat near Shoprite, the near-completion of the Deputy Governor’s residence, a 32-unit four-bedroom terrace for cabinet members, the new UNIMEDTH hospital building, remodeling of the Government House gate, and the furnishing of the Presidential Lodge.
He further highlighted projects in the pipeline, including architectural designs for new Legislative Quarters and a Legislative Office Complex at the Assembly, remodeling of some ministries and agencies, and proposed hostel facilities at the NYSC Orientation Camp in Ikare-Akoko.
Hon. Oladapo equally lauded Commissioner Olawoye for what he described as a “yeoman’s job” in the ministry, stressing that his expertise has driven much of its success since his appointment by Governor Aiyedatiwa.
At the OSDPC, the committee was received by the Acting General Manager, Mrs. Nene Ogunleye, who expressed delight at the visit. She commended the committee’s commitment to affordable housing and land management but outlined challenges faced by the corporation, including dwindling land banks, inadequate personnel, obsolete equipment, shortage of field vehicles, and encroachment issues.
She disclosed that OSDPC currently manages about 13 estates across the state, most of which are fully subscribed, and appealed for legislative support to expand land banks in order to meet the rising demand for housing.
Responding, Hon. Oladapo applauded OSDPC’s role in reducing the housing deficit and reaffirmed the Assembly’s readiness to support policies and budgetary frameworks that promote affordable housing.
He added that the visit gave lawmakers firsthand insight into institutional operations, project timelines, and challenges, which would help shape more responsive legislation and strengthen oversight.
According to him, the familiarisation tour formed part of the committee’s broader agenda to engage stakeholders in the land and housing sectors, ensuring judicious use of public resources and the delivery of quality infrastructure and housing to the people of Ondo State.