As we step into a new year filled with renewed possibilities, hope, and responsibility, I give all glory to God for the privilege of life, service, and stewardship.

The past year marks my first year of service at the Ogun–Oshun River Basin Development Authority following my appointment by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and it has been a year of purpose, learning, and measurable progress.

I am deeply grateful to Mr. President for the confidence reposed in me to serve as Executive Director, Finance and Administration, and for the broader Renewed Hope Agenda which continues to guide our work in the water resources sector.

Within the past year, we have taken deliberate steps to strengthen financial management, institutional accountability, and efficient resource deployment in support of the

Authority’s core mandate

Through prudent financial oversight and collaboration across departments, the Authority has supported and advanced critical projects in farm irrigation development, expansion of rural farm road networks, and provision of potable water to villages, towns, and marketplaces.

These interventions are not just infrastructure projects; they are lifelines for food security, rural livelihoods, and economic inclusion across our catchment areas of Ogun, Oyo, Osun, and Lagos States.

I particularly appreciate the dedication and resilience of our staff across the four states. Managing a diverse workforce spread across a wide operational area requires teamwork, discipline, and shared purpose, and I commend our staff for their professionalism and commitment to service.

My appreciation also extends to the leadership of our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), from the national level to the state, local government, and ward levels, particularly in Oyo State and Ogbomoso North Local Government.

I specially acknowledge my political leader, Hon. James Faleke, for his consistent leadership, guidance, and unwavering support.

Your collective encouragement, strategic direction, and belief in effective governance remain invaluable.

I also acknowledge, with deep respect, the support and royal fatherly counsel of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, whose leadership and wisdom continue to inspire unity and progress.

Within the Authority, I am grateful for the strong institutional leadership provided by the Chairman of the Board of Directors, Hon. Olusegun Odebunmi (Bunvic), the Managing Director, Dr. Adedeji Ashiru, and my fellow Executive Directors—Engineering, Planning & Design, and Agricultural Services.

Our collective synergy has been instrumental in driving stability, focus, and results.
As we move into the new year, our commitment remains unwavering.

Together, we will continue to align our operations with the vision of Mr. President and the strategic direction of the Federal Ministry of Water Resources, ensuring sustainable water provision, enhanced agricultural productivity, and inclusive development for the people we serve.

I wish all Nigerians, our partners, stakeholders, and staff of the Ogun–Oshun River Basin Development Authority a prosperous, peaceful, and productive New Year.

May the year ahead bring progress, unity, and renewed hope for us all.

Happy New Year.

Hon. Ayobami Oyalowo
Executive Director, Finance & Administration
Ogun–Oshun River Basin Development Authority
December 31, 2025