During a press briefing after the State Executive Council meeting, Femi Agagu, the Commissioner for Education, revealed the government's decision to create the committee in response to the challenges arising from the removal of fuel subsidies. The initiative aligns with the National Assembly's approval of President Bola Tinubu's request for N500 billion to implement palliative measures nationwide.
The primary objective of the nine-member committee is to devise and execute strategies that ensure the most vulnerable segments of society receive the necessary support. Headed by Olugbenga Ale, the governor's Chief of Staff, the committee comprises key officials such as Kayode Ogundele, the Head of Service; Wale Akinterinwa, Commissioner of Finance; Emmanuel Igbasan; and Wunmi Ilawole, Special Adviser on Education.
Other members include Dare Aragbaye, the Special Adviser on Union Matters and Special Duties; Tobi Ogunleye, the Special Adviser on Transportation; Tolu Adegbie, Chairman of Ondo State Internal Revenue Service (ODIRS); and Bayo Philips, the Permanent Secretary of Economic Planning and Budget, who will serve as Secretary.
In addition to the palliative care committee, the State Executive Council also addressed infrastructure initiatives in Ondo. Agagu announced that the council approved the awarding of a contract for the construction of 4.75 km of selected roads in Igbobini and Agadagba within the Ese-Odo Local Council of the state. Furthermore, the council authorized the construction of a 1000-meter concrete walkway at Obe-Nla in the Ilaje local council.
These developments reflect the Ondo State Government's commitment to alleviating the economic impact of the fuel subsidy removal and its dedication to improving infrastructure for the welfare of the residents. The palliative care committee is expected to work diligently to ensure that vulnerable individuals receive the necessary assistance, while the approved road and walkway projects aim to enhance transportation infrastructure and promote ease of movement within the state.