Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, on Thursday flagged off the Akure–Imafon Road Project in what he described as another clear demonstration of his administration’s commitment to infrastructure renewal and service delivery.
Addressing residents at the flag-off ceremony at the NNPC–Imafon Junction, Igbatoro Road, Akure, Governor Aiyedatiwa said the project represents a strategic response to the long-standing yearnings of residents of the area, adding that the event marked a milestone in the fulfilment of promises made during the campaigns and at his inauguration.
The Governor lauded traditional and spiritual leaders, party faithful, top government functionaries, youth leaders and landlords across communities within the axis for their resilience and self-help interventions in maintaining the road network over the years.
“Your patience and perseverance have finally paid off. Government has taken over that burden and your loyalty and sacrifice have not gone unrewarded,” he added.
Governor Aiyedatiwa reiterated his administration’s determination to bridge the state’s infrastructure gap by more than half before the end of his tenure.
He expressed confidence that the target would be surpassed if the current pace of development continues, complementing the Renewed Hope Transformation Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He emphasised that infrastructural expansion and human capital development remain central to the “OUR EASE” policy thrust of his administration, designed to fast-track human development.
According to him, good road networks facilitate the free flow of goods, services, and ideas, describing them as the lifeblood of any modern economy.
The Governor disclosed that the State Executive Council recently approved the rehabilitation and construction of 101 kilometres of new roads across the three senatorial districts of the State.
He said the initiative would ease vehicular movement, open up communities for development and improve the living standards of the people.
Addressing residents of Akure North, especially those from Igbatoro, Ala and Imafon communities, he sought their cooperation for the smooth execution of the project before the dry season ends, assuring that adjoining inner roads would also receive attention.
The Governor further assured that his administration would complete all inherited projects across the state, stressing that wprk would soon resume on the pngoing construction of the Ijoka dual carriageway.
Governor Aiyedatiwa pledged that no project would be abandoned, urging residents to continue to exercise patience and understanding.
In his welcome address, Commissioner for Infrastructure, Lands and Housing, Engr. Ayorinde Abiola Olawoye, appreciated Governor Aiyedatiwa for his contributions to infrastructural development in the state.
Olawoye explained that the construction of the Akure–Imafon Road covers six kilometres with an average width of 10.3 metres and includes several hydraulic and structural components.
He added that another 5.3 kilometres had been awarded from Investment Structure to ShortRite Roundabout, to the Federal Secretariat, with an average width of 60 metres.
Olawoye noted that many residents had wondered why the government was overlaying several roads at once. He explained that previous wearing courses had worn out because the binder course had been exposed to weather conditions, causing recurring potholes.
Chairman of Akure North Local Government, Johnson Ogunbolude, in his remarks, also commended Governor Aiyedatiwa for the project.
The council boss reaffirmed the total support of Akure North for the governor’s administration, describing his leadership as people-oriented and inclusive.
The Olumafon of Imafon, Oba Aliu Adegbehingbe, in his goodwill message, described the project as a symbol of hope and development for the community.
“This project is not just a road; it is a symbol of hope, benevolence, and connection, a lifeline that will open up our community, improve trade and bring social and economic growth to our people,” he said.
The monarch expressed profound gratitude to Governor Aiyedatiwa for turning the community’s appeal into action, recalling that during the governor’s visit to Imafon last year at about 11:30 p.m., he had promised to fix the road. “It’s not up to a year now, and they have done a wonderful job,” he said.
Those at the event included the Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami, Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti, Commissioner for Agriculture and Forestry, Engr Leye Akinola, Commissioner for Finance, Mrs Omowumi Isaac, Commissioner for Water Resources and Public Hygiene, Hon Ayo Akande, Chairman of Akure South Local Government, Dr. Gbenga Fasua and Senior Special Assistant to the Governor, Hon. Tayo Abidakun.