Laide Raheem, Abeokuta
Governor Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun State, on Thursday, said his administration in the last seven years, has judiciously deployed the resources of the state, to attract blue chip industries, to ensure socio-economic development.
The governor, who disclosed that 75 percent of Direct Foreign Investment (DFI) into the country, especially manufacturing, is domiciled in Ogun State, also declared his administration has moved the state from what he termed “backwater state” to investors destination of choice.
Governor Amosun stated these at the Town Hall Meeting on the 2019 budget, organised by the Ministry of Budget and Planning, held at the June 12, Cultural Centre, Abeokuta.
The meeting had in attendance traditional rulers, trade unions, community development associations, labour unions, civil society organisations, members of the organised private sector, student unions, among others.
The governor recalled that prior to 2011, Ogun State was rated number 29 in terms of Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) in the country, saying through his administration policy thrust, the state is today second to Lagos State in revenue generation.
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While noting the town hall meeting was necessary to gather inputs from members of the public in preparing the 2019 budget, the governor, reiterated that his administration would continue to execute projects till his last day in office.
He explained further that though, no single administration can finish all the projects his government has successfully laid foundation and template for successive administrations to build on.
Governor Amosun, who rated his administration high in the areas of security, education, agriculture, industry, health and infrastructure, however, thanked the people for their understanding and support.
Earlier, in her welcome address, Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Adenrele Adesina, pointed out that the meeting was to sensitise the people to the government’s plans and priority projects for 2019, as well as to obtain their thoughts and contributions on 2019 budget.