Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa today flagged off clearing of waterways and distribution of life jackets to communities in the riverine areas of Ondo State.
During the flagging off held at Oil Mill down to Ebute Irele in Okitipupa local government area of the state and initiated by the State Ministry of Transport, Governor Aiyedatiwa said the proactive steps were aimed at protecting citizens from boat mishap or against negative outcomes in the event of any boat mishap.
The Governor who was represented by his Special Adviser On Transport, Akogun Olugbenga Omole, explained that the projects would be carried out in the four affected local government areas of llaje, Ese-Odo, Okitipupa and Irele.
Hon Omole, a former State Lawmaker, said “It gives me great joy to welcome you all to this auspicious occasion of the flag off of the handing over of life jackets to beneficiaries in the riverine LGAs in Ondo State.
“This year activity will be carried out in the four affected LGAs of llaje, Ese-Odo. Okitipupa and Irele. Permit me to reiterate the fact once again that today’s activity would not have have been possible if not for the kind approval of our loving Governor who in his characteristic grace has provided every support needed for the success of the two programmes
“I am particularly delighted that the government of our amiable Governor His Excellency Honourable Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa is taking proactive steps to protect our citizens against negative outcomes in the event of any boat mishap.
“The event of today is quite significant when viewed from the background of several unfortunate incidents in kebbi, kogi, Niger and Kwara states in the last few months that led to unnecessary loss of lives. Once again we sympathize with the people and government of the affected states.
“It is our firm belief that water transportation can be safe and at the same time smooth devoid of any barriers nor obstacles on our waterways.
“That is why the event of today is not only about making life jackets available for travellers on our waterways but also to commence the clearing of Water Hyacinth from our waterways so as to facilitate hitch free commuting thereby promoting commerce in these communities and enhancing sustainable livelihood.
“On this note I hereby, on behalf of the people’s Governor flag off the distribution of life jackets and clearing of inland Waterways in the riverine areas of Onda State to the glory of God and for the benefit of the good people of Ondo State,” Akogun Omole said.
Some of the flying boat operators through their leaders, Tosin Adebusoye, Chairman of Oluwa boys and Sunday Ijitade, Chairman of Idepe/ Okitipupa branch, expressed appreciation to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and the Ministry of Transportation under Hon. Olugbenga Omole for coming to their aid at this critical time.
They said the clearing project and provision of life jackets for their operations would enhance their daily income and their boats would not develop fault incessantly.
On his part, a Senior Special Assistant to the State Governor on Youth Empowerment & job creation, Gbayi Semoreorioye, applauded the operators for their massive support to Governor Aiyedatiwa, promising that they would continue to benefit more dividends of democracy from the present administration.
