Senate President, Godwills Akpabio, has promised to support the Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, in his efforts to get necessary approval in the reconstruction of the Lagos-Abeokuta and Papalanto-Ilaro highways from the government at the centre.
Akpabio, who was the Chairman of the 2023 Yewa Cultural Festival grand finale held at the Ultramodern Pavilion, Empire Field, Ilaro, said the best of contractors would be given the road reconstruction job.
He lamented the deplorable state of the roads, noting that the state has the largest number of industries, with most cited in across the length and breadth of Yewaland.
He said, “When I was coming, I decided to pass through the Lagos-Abeokuta, Papalanto-Ilaro road, to the pains you people are facing on the road.
“I spent about two hours in holdup along Papalanto-Ilaro road because two tankers fell on the road. I really sympathise with you.
“I went through what you people are passing through on a daily basis. I am giving Governor Abiodun the Senate support in rehabilitation of these important roads.”
The Senate President, at the festival which showcased the rich cultural heritage of Yewa people, and attracted about 65 Senators among other dignitaries from all walks of life, was honoured with the chieftaincy title of “Fiwagboye of Yewaland” by the Yewa Traditional Council, under the chairmanship of the Olu of Ilaro and Paramount Ruler of Yewaland, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle.
Akpabio urged youths of Yewaland to support all good initiatives that would enhance the development of the area, adding that they should shun all forms of vices, such as drug, kidnapping, banditry and others that may affect the development of the area.
The Senate President at the festival solicited the support of Yewa people for the governorship ambition of Senator Adeola Olamilekan in 2027.
He said Senator Adeola has facilitated many developmental projects to Yewaland and deserves to be appreciated, stressing that it was high time for the people of Yewa to produce a governor since the creation of the state, almost 50 years ago.
Oba Olugbenle, in his remarks, noted that the only factor that could bring about desired development to Yewaland is unity, thereby calling on all sons and daughters of Yewaland, both home and abroad to unite.
He said, “Yewaland is one. There is no Yewa South or Yewa North. Don’t let us allow any form of division. Let’s make ourselves one. It is only through unity and oneness that we can achieve our desired development.
“I am impressed with the large turn out of Yewa indigenes from nooks and crannies of all the five local government areas in Yewaland.”
Governor Abiodun said the Yewa Cultural Festival celebration stands as a significant commercial activity that fosters economic integration and development among the Yewa people.
“It unites Yewas from diverse religious backgrounds, both at home and abroad. This celebration is rich in cultural displays, attracting various stakeholders in the arts, culture, and tourism industries. The showcasing of our cultural values during this festival has notably increased tourist interest and investor engagement in the State.
“Our administration recognizes the importance of promoting our cultural values and harnessing the longstanding potential of our people to stimulate indigenous economic enterprises, create job opportunities and ultimately establish the state as a vibrant and sustainable tourism destination,” Abiodun added.
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