The Ogun State House of Assembly has passed a resolution re-inviting the management of Dangote Cement Company to present a comprehensive master plan for its Ibese plant in Yewa North Local Government Area.
The Assembly demands the inclusion of adjuring facilities such as a trailer park and industrial drainage system, ensuring compliance with international best practices.
This decision followed the presentation of a report by the joint House Committees on Trade, Commerce, Investment, and Environment.
The report highlighted the adverse effects of the company’s operations on host communities, including environmental degradation and traffic congestion caused by the lack of a trailer park.
Chairman of the committee, Hon. Adebisi Oyedele, stated, “The Committee found Dangote Cement culpable of the allegations leveled against it. For decades, the company has operated without adequate facilities, deliberately causing hardships for residents and commuters in the affected areas.”
The Assembly emphasized the need for Dangote Cement to prioritize its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) obligations.
Hon. Oyedele added, “The company must avail this House with a master plan reflecting all facilities, including an industrial drainage system and a trailer park. This is imperative to mitigate the impact on the environment and livelihoods of the host communities.”
Lawmakers Advocate Health Trust Fund for OOUTH
In another resolution, the Ogun State House of Assembly proposed the establishment of a Health Trust Fund for the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital (OOUTH).
The fund is aimed at ensuring sustainable financial support for the hospital’s infrastructure development, modernization, and operations.
Hon. Babatunde Tella, who sponsored the resolution, stressed the importance of the initiative. “Our healthcare system is the backbone of our State’s prosperity, but OOUTH faces critical infrastructural and funding challenges. By establishing this trust fund, we can provide consistent funding to enhance the hospital’s infrastructure and procure advanced medical equipment,” he said.
The proposed fund would rely on diverse sources, including government allocations, contributions from well-meaning Nigerians, multinational corporations, and businesses operating in the State. Lawmakers suggested modeling the fund after the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund).
Hon. Tella explained, “This initiative aligns with our shared vision of progress for Ogun State. It is time to call upon the collective goodwill and support of all stakeholders to ensure OOUTH serves its purpose fully.”
The Assembly further proposed setting up a management committee for the fund, comprising representatives from the State Government, the Ministry of Health, OOUTH alumni, and other key stakeholders, to ensure transparency and accountability.
With these resolutions, the Assembly reaffirmed its commitment to addressing critical issues affecting the State, from environmental concerns to healthcare infrastructure.
