The Chairman of Ndokwa East Local Government Council, Hon. Chief Vincent Osilonya, has announced that his administration has executed 30 projects since assuming office.
Osilonya made the disclosure while receiving the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Community Newspaper, Prince Joseph Oromonokpaye, and his delegation during a courtesy visit to the council.
He explained that his administration prioritized infrastructure and agriculture by adopting a financial policy where 80 percent of available council funds, after salaries, were dedicated to capital projects, while 20 percent was set aside for overhead expenses. According to him, this prudent approach has enabled the council to deliver meaningful results.
“Our one-year anniversary featured 29 completed projects, and with the addition of a new borehole, the total now stands at 30,” Osilonya noted.
On human capital development, the Chairman cautioned against indiscriminate cash empowerment and distribution of starter packs, stressing that many beneficiaries misuse or sell such support. Instead, he emphasized channeling resources toward genuine farmers and sustainable ventures.
Outlining his agricultural plans, Osilonya revealed that the council is pursuing land acquisition and procuring processing equipment for cassava, yam, and plantain to enhance food production and boost export opportunities. He explained that modern garri-processing machines covering peeling, washing, grinding, pressing, and frying—would be installed in phases, helping farmers access bigger markets with well-packaged products.
He further stated that although budgetary constraints had slowed down full implementation of the law mandating councils to commit two percent of allocations to agriculture, a special agricultural account was being established to ensure compliance. The goal, he said, is to empower real farmers with improved seedlings and equipment rather than temporary handouts.
Osilonya, who maintains close ties with rural communities, assured that any beneficiary found selling empowerment tools would be compelled to refund the council.
He stressed that the combined focus on infrastructure and agriculture was a deliberate strategy to build a lasting foundation that transcends political promises while strengthening the economy of Ndokwa East.
The visit was rounded off with a tour of some completed projects in the council area.
