By Ogunmola Kazeem
Hon. Elias Adeojo was appointed to oversee the affairs of the Oyo State Water Corporation about three years ago. Upon his prompt assumption of office, he embarked on a comprehensive tour of water schemes across the geopolitical zones of the state. This assessment enabled him to identify the Corporation’s key challenges.
At the end of the tour, demonstrating strong leadership and teamwork, Hon. Adeojo convened a meeting with directors, engineers, and technical officers to develop practical solutions to the Corporation’s longstanding issues.
One of his earliest achievements was the reconnection of the Asejire Water Supply Scheme, which had been disconnected prior to his appointment. Through strategic negotiation, the outstanding financial obligations to IBEDC were structured into instalment payments.
Following the initial payment, the scheme was successfully reconnected, leading to a significant improvement in operations. Notably, the Asejire Scheme supplies over 70 percent of potable water to the Ibadan metropolis. As a result of these efforts, water supply has been restored to areas including Molete, Bode, Labiran, Yemetu, Bashorun, and Agodi Gate.
Similarly, the Eleyele Water Supply Scheme, which was operating at a very low capacity when he assumed office, has received considerable attention aimed at enhancing its output to complement Asejire. With the support of the State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, Hon. Adeojo facilitated the repair of damaged pipelines along the Sango–Eleyele and Eleyele–Dugbe roads.
These interventions led to the restoration of potable water to Eleyele, Sango, and the reservoir within Letmauck Barracks, which was rehabilitated to serve the barracks and surrounding communities, as well as the Adamasingba Stadium Complex.
Furthermore, key government institutions such as the Agodi Correctional Centre have been reconnected to the Corporation’s services. The Ladoke Akintola Int’l Airport has also received approval from His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde, to benefit from the Corporation’s water supply, with necessary processes already underway.
Beyond Ibadan, other zones of the state are receiving attention through Hon. Adeojo’s tireless efforts.
The Oyo Water Supply Scheme is now operational, while the Ogbomoso Water Supply Scheme has been revitalized with support from His Imperial Majesty, Oba Ghandi Olaoye, the Soun of Ogbomoso.
Eruwa Water Supply Scheme has also been rehabilitated.
Despite these achievements, some challenges persist, largely due to factors beyond the Corporation’s control, such as unstable power supply, unfavorable policies from power distribution agencies, and limited funding.
Given his energetic, result-driven leadership style, granting Hon. Elias Adeojo the opportunity to serve in a higher capacity would undoubtedly be beneficial to the state, as he has consistently demonstrated a commitment to addressing issues that directly impact the welfare of the people.
Ogunmola Kazeem
Information officer
Water Corporation of Oyo State.
