Ondo Community Connect Expands to All 203 Wards

Ondo Community Connect (OCC), an initiative supporting community-driven projects, aims to cover all 203 political wards in Ondo State. Iretidola Ojekhoa, the state Coordinator of OCC, stated that the initiative allows communities to identify their needs rather than imposing projects.

Initially focused on Akure, OCC has expanded to include all 18 local government areas in the state. The program conducts assessments to prioritize community needs based on impact, urgency, cost-effectiveness, and potential to improve quality of life.

For instance, residents in Ayede identified a blocked waterway as their top priority due to flooding issues. Other communities, like Ireakari, prioritized solar streetlights.

OCC has also supported public institutions, providing solar energy solutions. Additionally, the initiative incorporates skills development, offering training in shoemaking and leatherwork, with beneficiaries receiving contracts for production.

This model, inspired by Kogi Connect, is uniquely sponsored by OCC.