Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has announced plans to introduce a government-backed bulk food purchasing scheme and expand the state’s mass transit fleet in response to rising living costs and transportation challenges.
The governor unveiled the proposals during a meeting with organised labour representatives from the Ijebu axis in Ijebu-Ode, where discussions also covered workers’ welfare, pensions, education and other state policies.
The food initiative is expected to operate through the proposed Gateway Trading Corporation, allowing the government to purchase essential commodities in bulk and make them available to residents at lower prices.
Abiodun said the plan followed a recommendation by Ogun State Nigeria Labour Congress Chairman Hameed Ademola-Benco. He added that bulk purchasing could help the government negotiate better prices and encourage traders to review their rates in response to increased competition.
The governor also pledged to increase the number of mass transit buses available to workers and the general public, following concerns from labour representatives about commuting costs and access to transportation.
On workers’ entitlements, Abiodun said concerns over leave allowances and the Contributory Pension Scheme were receiving attention.
He also highlighted his administration’s investment in public education, saying about 1,600 classrooms had been constructed or renovated and hundreds of teachers employed over the past seven years. He praised teachers and students for achievements in academic competitions and assessments.
Labour representatives, including Ademola-Benco, Trade Union Congress Chairman Akeem Lasisi and Nigeria Union of Teachers Chairman Sewakanu Noah, commended the administration’s record on salaries, allowances, promotions and the settlement of outstanding gratuities and pensions.
They nevertheless called for a review of the Contributory Pension Scheme, the creation of a Ministry of Labour Affairs and increased funding for tertiary institutions.
The labour leaders also pledged support for All Progressives Congress candidates in the 2027 general elections, expressing confidence in the party’s leadership.
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