The Ondo Community Connect (OCC) initiative, a community intervention scheme backed by Nigeria's Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, is expanding across Ondo State. The program aims to reach all 203 wards in the state's 18 local government areas. OCC has already registered 800 communities, assessed 110, and delivered interventions in 74 communities.
The initiative allows communities to identify their most pressing needs rather than receiving projects selected without their input. Communities undergo physical assessments after registration, enabling residents to prioritize their urgent needs. A priority matrix is applied to determine the most critical projects based on impact, urgency, cost-effectiveness, and the speed of improving living conditions.
The program has extended its reach beyond its initial focus on communities around Akure to other parts of the state. At Ayede in Ilara-Mokin, residents identified the excavation of a blocked waterway as their most urgent need due to recurrent flooding during heavy rainfall. In Ireakari Community, residents selected solar lighting as their priority, with poles and foundation materials supplied and installation underway.
OCC has introduced skills development as part of its intervention strategy. Beneficiaries trained in shoemaking and leatherwork received production contracts to make school bags, sandals, and high-visibility jackets for field personnel. The program has also supported public institutions, including Positive FM in Akure, which received a 22kVA solar inverter system and 32 solar panels.
The initiative drew inspiration from Kogi Connect but differs in sponsorship and operational structure. OCC reflects Tunji-Ojo's community-focused activities before his appointment to the Federal Executive Council. The program initially planned to deliver one or two projects in each ward but later expanded to allow multiple interventions where needs are verified and resources permit.
OCC aims to increase its assessment rate over the next 12 months, reach more communities, and accelerate interventions through partnerships and additional projects. The program plans to produce a documentary to capture feedback and experiences from residents. By the end of next year, OCC aims to assess at least 40 additional communities and complete interventions in communities visited under Batch B.
Sustainability and community ownership are concerns, with some costly projects becoming unusable due to minor maintenance issues. Some communities have returned repeatedly for further assistance, creating an "Oliver Twist" effect that could stretch resources and delay interventions in other communities. OCC coordinator Iretidola Ojekhoa emphasized the importance of community ownership to ensure the program's long-term success.
Key points
- The Ondo Community Connect initiative aims to reach all 203 wards in Ondo State.
- The program allows communities to identify and prioritize their most pressing needs.
- OCC has registered 800 communities, assessed 110, and delivered interventions in 74 communities.
