Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has commended the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Gas Marketing Limited and Shell Nigeria Gas Limited for their dedication to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and their substantial contributions to the development of local communities.
The Governor made his remarks during the commissioning of the rehabilitated 4.5-kilometre Ilogbo Road in the Sango Ota area of the state. The project was carried out by NNPC Gas Marketing Limited and Shell Nigeria Gas Limited.
Governor Abiodun expressed that the project represented more than the mere completion of a road—it symbolised the creation of connections that would improve lives and foster stronger communities. He was represented at the event by his Deputy, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele.
During her speech, she spoke about the Governor’s administration’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for businesses to thrive through effective public-private partnerships. She acknowledged that projects like the Ilogbo Road rehabilitation serve as tangible examples of how such collaborations can lead to the delivery of sustainable infrastructure.
As the Governor noted, “This road project reflects the growing confidence in our administration and stands as a powerful example of how collaboration with the private sector can drive meaningful, sustained progress in our state. Our administration continues to prioritise projects that bring lasting value to our communities across Ogun State. We have launched and completed numerous road projects, with the goal of improving connectivity and the overall quality of life for our citizens.”
He went on to encourage other organisations and individuals to follow the lead of NNPC and Shell Gas Marketing Limited in fulfilling their Corporate Social Responsibility duties to the communities in which they operate.
He assured the public that the investment would bring immediate benefits to the people of Ota, Ilogbo, and all the communities along the route, thereby contributing to the broader economic growth of the state.
Responding to the Governor’s remarks, the Managing Director of NNPC Gas Marketing Limited (NGML), Igwe Ezenla, who was represented by Engr. Lawrence Chukwu, the Executive Director of Gas Distribution at Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), reaffirmed that NNPCL is a national asset, belonging to all Nigerians.
He underscored the importance of addressing the needs of local communities, adding that Ogun State was no exception. He also pointed out that the road project was fully funded by NGML.
Ezenla commended the Governor for his significant achievements in the state, recognising him as a valuable partner of NNPCL. He also expressed appreciation to the residents of Ota for their cooperation and peaceful conduct throughout the construction phase of the road.
In his address, the Managing Director of Shell Nigeria, Mr. Ralph Gbobo, also lauded the Ogun State Government for providing the conducive environment that enabled Shell and NNPCL to give back to the communities they serve.
Gbobo acknowledged the visionary leadership of Governor Abiodun, as well as the ongoing development occurring across the state. He pointed out that the completion of the 4.5-kilometre Oju-Ore Road to Ilogbo would not only ease transportation but also contribute significantly to the socio-economic development of the area.
He explained that the improved road would enhance connectivity, create new opportunities for trade, and provide vital infrastructure for social interactions between communities.
The Olota of Ota, Oba (Prof.) Abdulkabir Obalanlege, who was represented by the Aro of Ota, High Chief Ezekiel Fadipe, expressed his gratitude to Shell and NNPCL for their efforts in constructing the road. He emphasised that the project would significantly boost economic development in Ota and across the state.
A community representative, Mr. Francis Adeoti, also thanked the two companies for the rehabilitation of the road. He noted that the project would enhance economic activity in the area, contributing to the overall development of the region.
