Senator Jimoh Ibrahim: Charting a New Path for Development and Accountability in Ondo South

By Babatunde KUYE 
Published: October 2025

Ondo South Senatorial District is on the threshold of significant transformation. Following the approval of the 2025 Federal Budget, several key projects proposed by Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, CFR, PhD (Cantab) have been officially included — marking the beginning of a new phase of federal attention to the district’s infrastructural and human development.

As a legislator of intellect and foresight, Senator Ibrahim has consistently demonstrated that leadership is not about empty promises, but about securing tangible opportunities through proper legislative processes. His approach blends vision with accountability — ensuring that development starts with sound planning and transparent execution.

In his message to constituents, Senator Ibrahim expressed optimism that the implementation phase of the 2025 capital projects will begin soon under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and that Ondo South will feel the impact in visible ways.

“Yes, you want physical projects, aburo! What an excellent demand. With the Bitumen Bill passed, Nigeria will now put billions of Naira in subsequent budgets (and perhaps forever) after Mr. President’s signature on the Bill soon,” he said.

Below are the key projects already captured and approved in the national budget:

1. Remodeling of Major Markets (₦150 Million)

Awarded by the Federal Co-operative College, Oji River, this project covers Igbotako, Okiti Pupa, and Ore, and is designed to upgrade these markets into modern commercial spaces that support local business growth and create jobs.

2. Construction and Equipping of a Central JAMB Centre (₦600 Million)

A major educational investment for Ondo South, this centre will provide students with access to JAMB and related examination facilities within the district, reducing the burden of long-distance travel.

3. Federal Government Youth Centre (₦500 Million)

This centre, also included in the 2025 budget, will focus on youth innovation, skills training, and entrepreneurship, preparing young people for the challenges and opportunities of a modern economy.

4. Provision and Installation of Transformers (₦348.9 Million)

Awarded by the Federal College of Fisheries and Marine Technology, Lagos to Escabroso Nigeria Ltd., this project will cover communities across Okitipupa, Ilaje, Odigbo, Irele, Ese-Odo, and Ile-Oluji/Oke-Igbo LGAs. The 12-week project aims to expand electricity access and strengthen economic activities across the district once funding is released for execution.

5. Rehabilitation of the 18km Akinfosile–Erekiti Asphalt Overlay Road (₦349.5 Million)

Awarded by the Federal Co-operative College, Ibadan to Coraggio Nigeria Ltd., this 16-week project will restore a key transport corridor, improving connectivity, easing mobility, and stimulating rural commerce when implementation begins.

Collectively, these projects represent a forward-looking blueprint for development, totaling nearly ₦2 billion in federal investments earmarked for Ondo South — reflecting the senator’s strategic engagement with federal institutions and budgetary processes.

Senator Ibrahim continues to champion integrity in public service. Clarifying the process behind constituency projects, he emphasized that lawmakers do not receive cash allocations; instead, they nominate developmental projects worth up to ₦2 billion for inclusion in the federal budget.

“The Federal Government did not give any senator cash but allowed you to put projects up to two billion naira in the budget. If you add up the projects above, it is what my budget covers. Ask FGN agencies the particulars of the contractors,” he explained.

This level of transparency reassures constituents that the projects will be executed through official channels and with due oversight.

On the educational front, Senator Ibrahim reaffirmed that the ₦100 million bursary support for Ondo South students — earlier approved — is now ready for payment. He disclosed that the beneficiaries’ names have been collated and verified, with the process awaiting final bank action for the issuance of 1,000 bank drafts.

“Be assured that our ₦100 million bursary support to Ondo South students shall be transparent, and even Persons With Disabilities (PWD) will benefit. The names are ready; we are waiting for the bank to write out 1,000 bank drafts. We will publish the students’ telephone numbers and draft numbers,” he affirmed.

This statement reflects Senator Ibrahim’s trademark commitment to integrity and openness — ensuring that every youth who benefits from the scholarship is publicly accounted for, leaving no room for favoritism or secrecy.

This initiative underscores his belief that true development is not only about roads and buildings, but also about investing in people — particularly the youth, who represent the region’s greatest resource.

Senator Ibrahim’s advocacy for the Bitumen Development Bill, now awaiting presidential assent, is another example of his strategic approach to governance. Once signed into law, the Bill will institutionalize steady investment in Nigeria’s bitumen sector — an area where Ondo State holds massive potential. This foresight could open new streams of employment, revenue, and industrial growth for the district and beyond.

With the 2025 budget now approved and implementation around the corner, Senator Jimoh Ibrahim’s developmental vision for Ondo South is poised to move from paper to reality. His blend of intellectual rigor, legislative effectiveness, and transparent service continues to inspire confidence across communities.

Ondo South stands on the verge of progress — and its future looks brighter under a leader who works not for applause, but for measurable impact.

🌹 God bless Ondo South. God bless Senator Jimoh Ibrahim.