ONE YEAR OF PURPOSEFUL LEADERSHIP: THE POROYE SCORECARD
How Prince Olabiyi Olaleye Poroye Is Redefining Development in the Oil-Producing Areas of Ondo State
One year after assuming office as Executive Chairman of the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC), Prince Olabiyi Olaleye Poroye has embarked on one of the most ambitious institutional transformation programmes in the Commission’s history. His administration has combined governance reforms, infrastructure delivery, educational support, staff development, investment promotion, and social welfare into a comprehensive development agenda aimed at restoring public confidence and improving the quality of life in the oil-producing areas of Ilaje and Ese-Odo Local Government Areas.
✓ Building a Stronger Institution
Recognising that sustainable development begins with strong institutions, the Poroye administration initiated far-reaching administrative reforms. Additional departments and operational units were created to improve efficiency and service delivery. Fifteen Directors, alongside several Deputy Directors and Assistant Directors, were appointed and strategically deployed to strengthen leadership across the Commission.
In a landmark move for staff welfare, the employment of 145 officers recruited in 2023 was regularised, with formal appointment letters issued to secure their careers and reinforce institutional stability.
✓ Investing in Human Capital
Human capacity development has remained a central pillar of the administration. More than 340 staff members have benefited from professional training programmes, workshops, and specialised courses designed to improve competence, productivity, and innovation within the Commission.
These investments are positioning OSOPADEC as a modern public institution equipped to meet contemporary development challenges.
✓ Transforming Lives Through Education
Education has received unprecedented attention under the current leadership. During the year under review, bursary and scholarship awards were successfully disbursed to 4,873 indigent students for the 2023/2024 academic session.
Rather than treating the programme as a one-off intervention, the Commission promptly commenced the 2024/2025 bursary and scholarship scheme, ensuring continuity in financial assistance for deserving students across the mandate areas.
The initiative reflects a long-term commitment to building the next generation of professionals from the oil-rich region.
✓ Deepening Community Engagement
The successful hosting of the 2026 OSOPADEC Stakeholders Summit marked a significant milestone in participatory governance. The summit strengthened collaboration between government, traditional institutions, youth organisations, civil society, and community leaders, while expanding stakeholder participation in policy formulation and development planning.
✓ Social Protection for Vulnerable Citizens
The administration has maintained consistent monthly payments to traditional rulers, elderly citizens, and vulnerable persons across Ilaje and Ese-Odo.
Equally significant is the sustained monthly support for youths engaged in surveillance and maritime security operations, recognising their role in safeguarding critical assets and maintaining peace within the coastal communities.
✓ Driving Strategic Investments
Beyond public infrastructure, the Commission has pursued long-term economic reforms designed to create sustainable wealth.
A comprehensive OSOPADEC Baseline Report has been developed to provide reliable socio-economic data for evidence-based planning. Long-standing litigations involving Coastville Global Resources and other matters were successfully resolved through Alternative Dispute Resolution, reducing legal uncertainties.
The administration also commenced the development of the 685-plot Alape Estate, opening new opportunities for residential, commercial, and industrial investment.
Meanwhile, the revitalisation of Memphis Microfinance Bank has repositioned the institution to promote financial inclusion and support small and medium-scale enterprises within the mandate areas.
✓ Delivering Visible Infrastructure
Infrastructure development has remained one of the administration’s most visible achievements.
Completed projects include the General Hospital at Agadagba-Obon, the 1-kilometre Igbotu Township Road, and a series of concrete walkways and jetties at Obe-Nla, Obe-Rewoye, Obe-Ogbaro, Obe-Magbe, and Obe-Lomore, significantly improving mobility in riverine communities.
The administration has also moved beyond completed projects by flagging off several initiatives, including the Sabomi Township Road, multiple Naval Security Posts at Atijere, Odun-Oyinbo, Ebigban, and Apata, alongside the construction of concrete landing jetties across Ilaje and Ese-Odo.
These investments are expected to enhance transportation, strengthen maritime security, stimulate economic activities, and improve access to essential services.
✓ A Leadership Focused on Results
After one year in office, Prince Olabiyi Olaleye Poroye’s administration has demonstrated that effective public leadership is measured not merely by promises but by measurable outcomes.
From institutional reforms and educational empowerment to investments, staff development, social protection, and infrastructure expansion, the Commission has laid a stronger foundation for sustainable development in Ondo State’s oil-producing areas.
As OSOPADEC enters its second year under the current leadership, expectations remain high that the momentum already established will translate into even greater economic opportunities, improved public services, and lasting prosperity for the people of Ilaje and Ese-Odo.
Olusegun Godson Ewata
Director, Media and Corporate Affairs, OSOPADEC
