GOVERNOR Olusegun Mimiko will on Tuesday headline events at the inauguration of an ‘Ultra Modern Mechanic Village and Auto Spare Parts Market’ in the state capital of Akure.
According to Ondo State government officials, the projects are in line with the Administration’s objective to maintain a regime of urban renewal alongside the provision of development programs for artisans in Ondo State.
The secretary to the state government Rotimi Adelola described the projects as the first of its kind by any government in Nigeria, saying that Governor Mimiko will commission both projects jointly on Tuesday.
He said that the facilities that the project provides include “mechanic workshops, panel beating section, spraying and electrical sections, car wash bay, canteen, administration cum meeting blocks, borehole, bar, electricity, bathroom and toilets.”
At least 86 lock-up shops were installed for dealers in auto-parts. The complex also features 2 diagnostic shops, administrative block and bathroom facilities.
Mr. Adeola said that the Mimiko Administration intends to empower artisans and enable them practice their trade in a 21st century environment.
The senior state government official also said that providing a befitting environment for the artisans, will also improve on the urban renewal efforts of the government and ensure that the state further enhance its urban renewal status.
It would be recalled that Governor Mimiko bagged the United Nation’s Habitat award last year, making him the only Governor to be so decorated in the country.
The facilities are expected to commence operations immediately after they are commissioned by Governor Mimiko.
This would be the latest of similar initiatives by the Mimiko government in Ondo State in trailblazing the establishment of facilities unseen anywhere in Nigeria or Africa.
Last year, the Ondo State government launched a modern motor park, named the Driver’s Airport, that would serve as a hub for transportation in Akure and neighboring communities.