Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has confidently declared that the state can thrive independently, even without federal government support.
The governor made this bold statement in Abeokuta on Saturday at the public launch of the Olumo Courts, a new luxury serviced apartment complex in the Government Reserved Area (GRA) of Ibara.
He emphasized that Ogun’s economy, bolstered by his administration’s strategic policies, is now among Nigeria’s top states in terms of internally generated revenue (IGR).
“Ogun State generated more revenue than five states in one zone and six in another in 2023,” Abiodun said, citing a recent report from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). “We are among the few states that can succeed without federal support.”
On October 28, the NBS reported that Nigeria’s 36 states, along with the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), generated a combined N2.43 trillion in 2023—a 26.5% increase from 2022. Ogun’s strong IGR performance was a key contributor to this growth.
Governor Abiodun’s statement highlights Ogun’s impressive revenue generation, positioning it as a financially stable state capable of pursuing ambitious development projects.
At the event, he addressed criticisms of his administration’s urban renewal initiatives, particularly in Ibara GRA where Olumo Courts is located.
“We embarked on the urban renewal of Abeokuta, starting with Ibara GRA, despite facing significant criticism,” he stated. “The success of Olumo Courts affirms that we are on the right path.”
Abiodun acknowledged former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who he credited for championing the Olumo Courts project, strengthening the state’s commitment to urban transformation.
Olumo Courts is a luxurious development boasting 36 smart apartments equipped with modern amenities, including a swimming pool, tennis court, gym, and squash court.
The governor said the project will create jobs, attract investment, and encourage Nigerians abroad to invest in Ogun State.
“This development should inspire all Ogun residents,” he urged. “It shows that our urban renewal efforts will benefit not only residents but also Nigerians in the diaspora who see Ogun as a place to invest.”
He explained that the project approval process took 17 months, as essential redesigns were required to meet Ogun’s urban regeneration standards.
Former Senator Iyabo Obasanjo spoke at the launch, praising Abeokuta’s unique geographic appeal. “Abeokuta’s location makes it an attractive destination, and projects like Olumo Courts will draw the world to Ogun State,” she said.
Rotimi Martins, a member of the development team, called Olumo Courts the “first smart city estate within the GRA,” positioning Ogun at the forefront of Nigeria’s smart development trend.
The Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo, also applauded the project, highlighting how environmental upgrades like Olumo Courts can drive development in Ogun.
“The Olumo Courts project shows that with vision and commitment, we can enhance our environment and improve our communities,” he said.
Governor Abiodun’s stance underscores his confidence in Ogun’s economic independence. His administration’s investments in infrastructure and urban renewal continue to transform the state, making it a model of financial and developmental autonomy.