Oyo State Housing Corporation Unveils Plan for 2,500 Housing Units in Ajoda New Town

The Chairman of the Oyo State Housing Corporation, Demola Omotosho, has announced that all necessary preparations have been made to ensure the completion of 2,500 housing units in Ajoda New Town within 12 months of the project's launch. He made this statement during a press briefing in Ibadan on Wednesday, while discussing the current progress of housing initiatives. "We will complete the 2,500 housing units within twelve calendar months, starting from the day the Governor approves and lays the foundation," Omotosho said.

He explained that the corporation is aligned with the Governor’s development efforts, with a focus on fulfilling their primary mission of providing housing. “If you look at the history of the corporation, housing has always been our core responsibility. We've initiated a new project to construct affordable homes in all our estates across the state, starting with the capital city, Ibadan."

Omotosho shared that the vision for building 2,500 housing units was initially met with skepticism, but the corporation has chosen Ajoda New Town, founded in 1976, as the starting point. He commended the previous board for transforming the area, which spans 5,000 hectares, from a forest to a more developed location. “The last board laid down roads and infrastructure, making Ajoda more appealing. As the new board, we are building on this foundation, which led to the idea of constructing 2,500 housing units."

He emphasized Ajoda's strategic location, noting that the town will experience significant growth due to its connection to the circular road and its proximity to Ladoke Akintola Airport, which is being upgraded to international standards. The chairman also mentioned plans for a new golf estate in the area.

In addition to the Ajoda project, Omotosho highlighted other upcoming initiatives. Once the Ajoda housing project begins, the agency will focus on developing the Owode housing estate and launching the Olubadan shopping mall, which will feature 350 shops and offices, across from Gbagi market. He also mentioned ongoing discussions with investors and developers to explore opportunities in other parts of the state, expecting to see new developments emerge soon.

Addressing concerns regarding land revocation, resettlement, and relocation, Omotosho acknowledged that some projects would face these issues. He explained that speculators holding onto land without developing it are hindering progress. The Housing Corporation's laws are clear: if no development occurs within a year of allocation, the landowner will be reminded, and after another year, the land can be revoked. "Some individuals have held onto these lands for as long as 20 years without any development or payment of statutory fees," he said.

However, Omotosho assured landowners that as long as they have met their obligations, they will not lose their land. He emphasized that any necessary adjustments will be made through mutual agreements with the landholders, ensuring development while avoiding unnecessary revocations. "We are here to solve problems, not create them," he concluded.