The Ondo State Government has pledged to release counterpart funding for the next phase of the Owena Multipurpose Dam Rehabilitation and Reticulation Project, while also seeking the expansion of the French Development Agency (AFD)-supported initiative to cover additional critical areas.
The commitment was made in Akure during the opening of a two-day Project Coordination Review Workshop for stakeholders under the National Urban Water Sector Reform Programme.
Speaking at the event, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa reaffirmed the state’s resolve to prioritise water infrastructure, assuring development partners of its readiness to meet financial obligations to ensure the smooth execution of the project.
He also urged the AFD to consider extending the scope of the intervention, noting that broader coverage would significantly enhance access to potable water in more communities across the state.
Stakeholders at the workshop, including representatives of the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation and the AFD, commended the move, describing it as a clear demonstration of commitment to revitalising the water sector.
In his remarks, the Commissioner in charge of the Ondo State water sector, Hon. Ayodele Akande, praised the administration’s sustained investment, noting that the renewed assurance on funding and the request for expansion would further accelerate ongoing reforms.
“It is not every time a state is blessed with a leader committed to the water sector. This resolve will leave a lasting impact for future generations,” he said.
Akande added that stakeholders remain aligned with the government’s vision and are committed to supporting efforts aimed at improving water supply and sustainability.
Also present at the event were the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Princess Adetoye, alongside the General Managers of the Ondo State Water Corporation and the Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency.
Participants were also drawn from Plateau, Enugu and Kano states, where similar AFD-supported water projects are currently being implemented.