The Development Agenda for Western Nigeria Commission (DAWN) is dedicated to expediting development in the South-West region of Nigeria. The Commission’s Chairman, State Focal Officers, Mr. Boye Ologbese, expressed the commitment to regional development, highlighting the proposed integrated transportation network project as part of the blueprint for fast-tracking the region’s development.
In a statement released in Akure, Ondo State’s capital, by his media aide, Mrs. Debbie Funmilayo, Ologbese, who also serves as the Ondo State Commissioner for Regional Integration and Diaspora Relations, discussed the importance of the regional railway route project, which aims to connect 44 cities and towns in the South-West region, thereby enhancing economic development.
Ologbese explained, “DAWN has a mandate to ensure sustainable development in the South-West region effectively, and the commission has a blueprint to fast-track development in the area of power and railway. The integrated transportation network project addresses transportation network challenges in the South-West region, facilitating the movement of people, goods, and services while opening up the hinterland. The rail infrastructure will improve access to other South-Western states, thereby fostering economic opportunities. We anticipate that improved mobility through the rail project will help cope with Nigeria’s rapidly growing population.”
He praised the efforts of Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, for initiatives such as the creation of the state security network known as the Amotekun Corps, which complements conventional security agencies in providing protection to the lives and property of South-West residents.
Peace and security play a vital role in strengthening regional economic integration, and Ologbese commended Akeredolu’s interventions, including the establishment of the Ondo State Security Network Agency (Amotekun Corps) and the actualization of the Ondo Deep Sea Port, which is set to enhance regional trade and boost agricultural production capacity.
Ologbese called for collective action by the South-West states’ focal representatives in the commission, emphasizing the importance of harmonized efforts to fulfill the commission’s mandate effectively. The commission remains dedicated to advancing the development agenda in the South-West region.