The Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority (OORBDA) has responded to recent criticisms regarding its greenhouse initiatives, defending its accomplishments and reaffirming its commitment to advancing Nigeria’s agricultural sector under the leadership of Adedeji Ashiru, its Managing Director and CEO.
According to PUNCH Online, Ashiru stated last Friday that over the past year, as part of President Bola Tinubu’s initiative to enhance food production, the Federal Government has constructed 323 greenhouse farming projects across the six states of the Southwest geopolitical zone.
In a statement released on Thursday, Ashiru, the Authority’s Executive Director of Planning and Design, Mr. Femi Dokunmu, and the Head of Construction, Taiwo Ogunshoro, clarified the greenhouse projects.
He confirmed the completion of 73 new greenhouses, full rehabilitation of five others, and plans to refurbish an additional 15 units.
He noted that contracts for 220 more greenhouses have been awarded, with delivery anticipated by 2025.
Ashiru maintained that these developments are crucial for ensuring year-round food production, aligning with Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency on food security.
“Greenhouses are not just structures; they are a lifeline for sustainable agriculture, especially during dry seasons when traditional farming faces challenges. Our initiatives are designed to guarantee an uninterrupted food supply, and every figure we present is backed by verifiable progress,” he stated.
Ashiru also highlighted improvements in access to clean water, noting that in 2024, the Authority awarded contracts for 400 solar-powered boreholes targeting rural communities across its seven-state coverage.
Many of these projects have been completed, providing safe groundwater to households and farms.
Progress has also been made in reviving the dormant hydropower potential of the 1980s-built Ikere Gorge and Oyan dams.
Responding to claims of inflated project figures, Ashiru clarified that the total of 313 greenhouses includes completed units, those under construction, and newly awarded contracts.
“When we report our achievements, we account for all active and forthcoming projects. Transparency and accountability remain the cornerstones of our operations,” he said.
He reaffirmed that all projects align with the Authority’s legal mandate of managing water resources, promoting irrigation, controlling floods and erosion, and generating hydropower.
Supporting Ashiru’s statements, Dokunmu praised his leadership for revitalising previously stalled initiatives. “Under Dr. Ashiru’s guidance, we have breathed new life into dormant projects, delivering tangible results that benefit our communities,” he noted, emphasising the commissioning of solar-powered boreholes that have improved water access for rural residents.
Ogunshoro assured that all road projects adhere to strict quality standards.
“Our asphalt specifications meet the required 50mm thickness, and in areas like Okemosan, we have even exceeded this with 3-inch layers to ensure durability. We do not compromise on quality. The Authority is working with the Ogun State government to restore power generation capacity for nearby communities using surface water,” he explained.
He reaffirmed that the Authority remains committed to enhancing Nigeria’s agricultural productivity through innovative and sustainable solutions.
“With greenhouse expansion, improved rural water access, and robust infrastructure development, OORBDA’s initiatives are pivotal in building a resilient food system for the nation,” he stated.
