By Aderemi Bamgbose
Sen. Nicholas Tofowomo, representing Ondo South Senatorial District at the National Assembly, says the proposed Bitumen Training Institute will position Ode-Aye as community with second largest bitumen deposits in the world.
Tofowomo stated this in a statement issued by his Media Aide, Mr Olumide Akinrinlola, on Wednesday in Okitipupa.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the lawmaker had visited Ode-Aye in Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State to assess the site for the proposed bitumen training institute.
NAN also reports that the bill for the establishment of the institute was sponsored by Tofowomo.
The senator said that the assessment visit to the community was to aid the second reading and eventual passage of the bill.
According to him, exploration of bitumen in the area will not only be of immense benefit to the state and the country in term of foreign exchange but will also relieve Nigeria from absolute dependence on petroleum alone.
“I have come to look at things myself in preparation for the second reading of my bill on the establishment of Bitumen Training Institute in Ode Aye.
“This is not a third party report. I can see bitumen coming out from the soil live here in Ode Aye kingdom. This is not magic but reality.
“Having a bitumen institute here will allow us to be the second largest bitumen deposit community in the world. It will also increase our foreign exchange and boost the economy.
“I promise to do my best for the successful passage of the bill. I’m also using this opportunity to seek the support of my colleagues and the leadership of the senate for the timely passage of the bill,” Tofowomo said.
NAN reports that the bill for the establishment of institute in Ode Aye has passed its first reading at the national assembly.
NAN also reports that large deposits of bitumen had been found in Idogun and Ladan quarters as well as five other communities, comprising Yegbata, Igoorisa, Ladewo, Idebi and Gbotalota, with samples of the commodity already taken.
Tofowomo and his entourage had earlier been received by Oba Williams Akinmusayo, the Halu of Ode-Aye kingdom and other prominent chiefs in the town. (NAN)