Minister installs 233 solar-powered streetlights in Ondo communities

The Minister of Youths, Mr Ayodele Olawamide, has installed no fewer than 233 solar-powered streetlights in the communities in Akure, the Ondo State capital.

Some of the streets where the streetlights were installed include Irese Road, Alagbaka, Shagari village, Odopetu, Odige, Oke Padi, Otutubiosun, Igboliki, Ijeminkin and Irowo, among others.

The chairman of the Coalition of Ondo Emerging Leaders, Oluseye Akintunde, disclosed this in a statement in Akure on Wednesday.

According to him, the renewable energy streetlight project of the minister was reshaping the urban and rural communities of the state.

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Akintunde explained that the development had improved nighttime visibility and overall quality of life in the affected communities, saying the minister’s gesture would continue to change communities in the state.

He said, “The minister’s efforts continue to change communities in the state with these renewable energy streetlights. This is a bold and forward-thinking project that not only enhances security but also encourages sustainable development.

“The initiative is already changing the urban landscape of Akure, stimulating economic activities, and restoring confidence among residents.”

Akintunde also lauded the minister’s active engagement with the youths in the state, which he said had given them lifetime opportunities.

Describing the gesture as a model of people-focused leadership, the COEL chairman urged the minister to expand the projects so as to reach more communities in the state, stressing that ” access to reliable lighting is crucial for safety, productivity, and social wellbeing.”

Oyemide is one of the three ministers from Ondo State appointed by President Bola Tinubu in 2023. The two others are the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo and the recently appointed Minister of State for Finance, Taiwo Oyedele.

Street lighting has remained an important component of urban and rural development, particularly in improving security, road safety, and economic activities within communities.