Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has urged traditional rulers across the state to foster a welcoming, investor-friendly atmosphere in their domains, cautioning that hostility toward investors could threaten the state’s economic progress.
The governor made the appeal on Thursday while handing over 40 SUVs to traditional rulers during the statutory meeting of the Ogun State Council of Obas held at the Oba’s Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.
Expressing worry over reports of uncooperative behaviour by some communities—particularly in Yewa South, Ipokia, and Ijebu North—Abiodun criticised what he described as hostility toward investors ready to commit billions of dollars to the state’s economy.
He emphasised that such investments are vital for job creation, infrastructure expansion, and broader socio-economic development, noting that communities must embrace development initiatives instead of obstructing them.
“We have received disturbing reports about the conduct of some communities during recent investor engagements. This is unacceptable,” the governor said.
“These investors are bringing in significant capital that will transform our economy, create jobs for our people, and improve livelihoods. They must be welcomed and supported.”
Abiodun called on traditional rulers to assume responsibility for maintaining peace and cooperation within their domains, highlighting their important role in enabling development.
“Kabiyesis, I urge you to work closely with your people to create an enabling environment for investors. Development cannot thrive in an atmosphere of hostility and distrust. We must position Ogun State as a preferred investment destination,” he said.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to safeguard investments, warning that any actions capable of discouraging investors would not be accepted.
Beyond investment-related issues, he urged residents and traditional institutions to remain vigilant in the face of increasing insecurity in parts of the country, encouraging them to promptly report suspicious movements to security agencies.
While recognising ongoing efforts by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to tackle security challenges across the nation, Abiodun stressed that local alertness remains crucial to maintaining Ogun State’s relative peace.
He also warned traditional rulers against indiscriminate allocation of land and involvement in land disputes, describing land as a valuable economic asset that must be handled with accountability.
“Our land is our oil. It must not be allocated carelessly. We must ensure that land matters are handled transparently and responsibly to attract and retain genuine investors,” he added.
The governor further cautioned landlords against renting properties to individuals involved in criminal activities, stating that any building discovered to be used for illegal purposes would be pulled down.
In his remarks, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Ganiyu Hazmat, said the meeting—its first in 2026—was organised to address major issues concerning security and development while strengthening cooperation between the government and traditional institutions.
Similarly, the Chairman of the Council and Paramount Ruler of Yewaland, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, praised the governor’s development efforts and reaffirmed the council’s support for policies aimed at economic growth and stability.
A major highlight of the meeting was the presentation of the 40 SUVs to traditional rulers to strengthen their administrative duties and community engagement responsibilities.
