Segun Ayinde, Abeokuta
Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has expressed satisfaction with the progress of his administration’s urban renewal housing scheme, stating that Government Reservation Areas (GRAs) across the state are undergoing a remarkable transformation.
Speaking during an inspection of the newly completed first phase of 35 housing units at the Ibara GRA in Abeokuta, Abiodun noted that similar developments are taking shape in Kobape, Iperu, Ijebu-Ode, and Ilaro, with the goal of modernizing these estates into smart cities.
The governor, who decried the previously deplorable state of the GRAs, commended the Commissioner for Housing, Jagunmolu Omoniyi, and his team for delivering high-quality, affordable homes that enhance residents’ quality of life.
He highlighted that the GRA regeneration projects were not only improving urban aesthetics but also creating job opportunities, as construction was carried out by local artisans, including painters, bricklayers, carpenters, and welders.
Abiodun assured that similar housing projects would be extended to Sagamu and Ota, leveraging their proximity to Lagos to attract more residents and investors.
“We initiated urban renewal projects in Abeokuta in phases, starting with three hectares of land. The first phase has delivered 35 houses, setting a high standard for our state capital,” Abiodun said.
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“These houses are not only affordable but also of top quality. The designs are visually appealing, and construction was carried out through direct labor, allowing our local artisans to actively participate. This is an example of urban development done right.”
He emphasized that the vision behind the project was being effectively implemented, adding, “Abeokuta is the capital of the Gateway State, and everything we do must reflect the Ogun standard. These structures can compete with any in the world, and we believe this project will attract more people to live and invest in Abeokuta.”
Commissioner for Housing, Jagunmolu Omoniyi, explained that the Ibara GRA renewal project aims to modernize the aging estate, originally built in 1976 when the state was created. He revealed that four construction clusters were currently active, with the first batch of about 200 duplexes set for commissioning in two months, while additional units would be completed by December.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Housing, Prince Faruq Adenugba, praised Abiodun for the initiative, describing it as a game-changer that would enhance the state capital’s appeal. He urged prospective buyers to take advantage of the affordable pricing, emphasizing the estate’s potential as a prime investment hub.