President Bola Tinubu has promised urgent action on electricity and water supply challenges in Ogbomoso land in Oyo State, describing the twin issues as “strong notes” he had taken.
The President made the promise while responding to requests tabled before him by the Soun of Ogbomosho land, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Laoye, Orumogege III, during his courtesy visit to the State House, Abuja, on Wednesday.
Ministers and other senior government officials were present at the meeting.
“On the question of the 132KVA transmission, I have taken strong note of that. I will be with the Honourable Minister and other parties involved, and I promise you will see results,” Tinubu said.
President Tinubu also directed the Minister of Water Resources to look into Ogbomosho’s dams and the lack of mechanised irrigation, saying, “Water is life. We will do everything to respond to that.”
The President further pledged federal support for agriculture, skills development, and youth employment in Ogbomosho, saying the area’s vast farmlands could be harnessed for cashew, mangoes, and other products.
Earlier, Oba Laoye lamented that Ogbomosho, despite being the second largest town in Oyo State and historically one of Nigeria’s biggest urban centres, had been left behind in development because it is not a state capital.
He appealed for federal intervention in power and water projects to ease the plight of residents.
“Most times, we do not have light. This town is the second largest in Oyo State. Historically, it used to be the third largest in Nigeria, but because Ogbomosho is not the capital, other towns we were bigger than have now overtaken us.
“We have two dams but no running water. For us to have two dams and still lack water is a shame,” the monarch said.
The Soun of Ogbomosho Land expressed confidence in Tinubu’s administration, noting the impact of his leadership model in Lagos State. He urged the Federal Government to prioritise Ogbomosho’s requests, which, he stressed, were “few but critical.”
