THE Federal Government, through the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals (OSSAP-SDGs), has commissioned the new Ota Central Police Divisional Headquarters and a state-of-the-art 40-Bed Primary Healthcare Centre (PHC), in Ota, Ogun State.
The facilities are to serve not only the residents of Ota but also neighbouring communities in the state.
The commissioning of the fully equipped projects, constructed under the leadership of Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, drew dignitaries from government, traditional councils, security agencies, healthcare bodies, and community groups, underscoring their role in driving socio-economic progress.
Desmond Utomwen, Special Assistant on Media, Publicity and Strategic Communication to the SSAP-SDGs, described the commissioning atmosphere as one of excitement, gratitude, and celebration. Residents hailed the initiatives as long-awaited game-changers for community wellbeing.
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Represented by Secretary of Programme (SOP-SDGs) Bala Mohammed Saulawa, Princess Orelope-Adefulire called the projects strategic interventions for peace, security, healthcare, and sustainable development.
She tied the Police Headquarters to Sustainable Development Goal 16 (peace, justice, and strong institutions), stating: "Today, we are not merely unveiling a structure; we are strengthening the very foundation upon which sustainable development thrives -- peace, security, and strong institutions."
She added: "The construction of this Police Headquarters reflects a deliberate commitment to improving operational capacity, enhancing the working conditions of our law enforcement officers, and fostering trust between the police and the communities they serve.
"When security institutions are strengthened, communities flourish, businesses grow, and development becomes sustainable."
She stated that the efforts align with President Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda, showing federal commitment to people-centred infrastructure.
For the PHC, linked to SDG 3 (Good Health and Wellbeing), Orelope-Adefulire emphasised quality, affordable care for women, children, and vulnerable groups: "a safe community must also be a healthy community."
The Olota of Ottaland, His Majesty Professor Adeyemi Obalanlege, deemed the day "historic and memorable."
He declared: "Today is a historic and memorable day for the Ancient and Paramount Ottaland as we commission two landmark projects; the Ota Central Police Divisional Headquarters and the 40-Bed Primary Health Centre. These projects stand as enduring symbols of progress, improved security, accessible healthcare, and purposeful governance for our people."
The monarch thanked President Tinubu for inclusive development, Governor Dapo Abiodun for a peaceful environment, and Princess Orelope-Adefulire as "our illustrious daughter and pride of Aworiland."
He noted: "Through your office, countless communities have benefitted from transformative projects aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals. The commissioning of these facilities today further demonstrates your enduring commitment to the welfare, safety, and well-being of our people. Ota Awori deeply appreciates your thoughtfulness, loyalty to your roots, and exceptional service to the nation."
He highlighted the site's history as a former policing post: "Today therefore represents not just a commissioning, but the restoration of an important legacy of peace, security, and public safety in Ottaland."
Ogun State Commissioner of Police Lanre Ogunlowo praised the boost to operations: "The project will significantly improve operational efficiency and strengthen our capacity to respond swiftly to security concerns within Ota and adjoining communities. A conducive working environment for officers directly translates to improved service delivery and enhanced public confidence in policing."
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He pledged deeper community policing with traditional rulers, youth, and stakeholders.
Community voices echoed the impact. Baale Chief Rasaq Adekunle said, "For years, our people have yearned for improved security presence and better healthcare services. These projects will reduce the burden on residents who previously travelled long distances for medical attention and security assistance. We are truly grateful."
Women leader Mrs Funmilayo Adebisi added: "This healthcare centre means hope for mothers, pregnant women, children, and the elderly. Access to quality healthcare saves lives, and this facility will make a huge difference for families in this community."
