The Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, on Wednesday inspected completed and ongoing road construction and rehabilitation projects across Akure, the State capital, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to infrastructural development and urban renewal.
The Governor, who assessed the level of work done on some of the road projects, was welcomed with cheers from residents of the areas who commended his strides in road infrastructure.
Some of the rehabilitation and asphalt overlay project sites visited by the Governor included Iloro-Owe Akala street, Iro-Odopetu road, Alafiatayo-Odole-Odi-Olowo road which are all nearing completion.
The Governor, accompanied by the Special Adviser on Infrastructure, Lands and Housing, Engr. Abiola Olawoye and Chairman of Akure South Local Government, Dr. Gbenga Fasua, thanked the residents for their support for the projects.
The inspection visit drew a massive turnout of excited residents who expressed their appreciation for the ongoing projects.
Many of the residents lamented the neglect of those roads for decades, commending the Governor for extending the road rehabilitation gesture to their domains.
The Governor also inspected the ongoing Oda Road, Ijoka Road and Shagari-Onyearugbulem flyover projects, assuring on their timely completion.
Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed satisfaction with the quality of work being done and reiterated his promise to improve road infrastructure across the state’s three senatorial districts.
Speaking at Owe Akala Junction, the Governor highlighted the significance of the ongoing projects
He said; “This is just the fulfillment of one of the promises we made to our people across the state. Today, I am in the Central Senatorial District, where about 20 kilometers of road construction is ongoing. Specifically, here in Akure South, this 2.3-kilometer road is a vital urban link that has been in a deplorable condition for close to 20 years.”
The Governor noted that about one kilometer of asphalt overlay had already been completed, with the remaining 1.3 kilometers set for completion within days. He assured residents that similar projects are ongoing across the state.
“Some people ask, ‘Why focus on Akure?’ But the truth is, we are implementing a total of 60 kilometers of road projects, 20 kilometers in each senatorial district. Work is ongoing in the North and South as well, and I will be visiting those areas soon”, he said.
At Odopetu Road, Governor Aiyedatiwa emphasized the importance of rehabilitating abandoned roads within Akure metropolis, saying; “This road, which connects Ecobank Junction/Arakale, has been left unattended for years. But as part of our urban renewal and infrastructural development agenda, we are ensuring its completion. So far, 1.5 kilometers has been done, and the contractor has assured us that the remaining 300 meters will be finished soon.”
He commended the quality of work, stating that it had been authenticated by the Special Adviser on Infrastructure, Engr. Olawoye, who is a certified civil engineer and fellow of the Society of Engineers.
At Oda Road, a major 7.8-kilometer stretch, Governor Aiyedatiwa noted that the road is crucial for both residents and farmers. He revealed that an additional 7-kilometer extension, being handled by the Rural Access and Agriculture Marketing Program (RAAMP), would connect farm settlements to the city.
“This project will allow ease of movement for farmers, enabling them to transport their produce efficiently. We are confident that in the next six to eight weeks, this road will be completed and commissioned”, the Governor added.
Also at Shagari-Onyearugbulem flyover project, the Governor emphasized his dedication to delivering key infrastructure projects.
He sais: “The Onyearugbulem Bridge is currently 70% complete, and we have urged the contractors to expedite the work so that it can be commissioned within the next two months. This project was initiated by the former governor, and we are fully committed to ensuring its completion.”
At Ijoka Road, the Governor reaffirmed his commitment to fulfilling the promises made during the gubernatorial campaign, assuring residents that the 8.1-kilometer road—initiated by the previous administration—would soon be completed.
While addressing the residents, the Governor said: “I appreciate your patience so far, and I want to assure you that work on this road will now be accelerated. I appeal to you to cooperate with the contractors to ensure smooth progress. Once completed, this road will bring significant benefits to everyone in this community.”
Governor Aiyedatiwa reaffirmed that infrastructural development remains a top priority for his administration, emphasizing that his government will not relent in ensuring that all senatorial districts benefit from quality road networks.
The Chairman of Akure South Local Government, Gbenga Fasua, described the projects as a transformational development for the city, saying; “We have seen a massive improvement in road infrastructure across Akure. Many of these roads were in terrible condition for years, making life difficult for residents. But today, from Oda to Oke Aro and Odopetu, many parts of Akure are being touched. We are grateful to the governor for keeping his promise.”
Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan,
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
March 19, 2025.