By Adedotun Ajayi

The Governor of Ondo State, Dr Lucky Aiyedatiwa, on Thursday commissioned the rehabilitation and asphalt overlay of Stadium/Hospital Road in Ondo West, as part of activities marking his first 100 days in office.

Speaking at the commissioning, the governor described the event as a significant milestone in his administration’s journey to delivering on its promise of people-focused governance through strategic infrastructure development.

“This is not just another road; it is a critical lifeline, an artery connecting our communities to essential healthcare services, a pathway to greater accessibility, and a powerful symbol of our administration’s unwavering commitment to improving the lives of every Ondo State resident,” he said.

The reconstructed road serves as a major access route to key healthcare institutions, including the General Hospital in Ondo City, the Ondo State University of Medical Sciences Teaching Hospital Complex, and surrounding residential and commercial areas.

Governor Aiyedatiwa stressed that the project was not only a response to infrastructure decay but also a deliberate intervention in support of the state’s healthcare delivery system.

He recalled the challenges previously faced by road users, especially ambulances and emergency vehicles that struggled to access health facilities due to the deplorable condition of the road.

“I recall vividly the distressing reports of ambulances struggling to navigate potholes, the challenges faced by families trying to access emergency care, and the general lament from community members. Today, that challenging narrative has changed fundamentally,” he said.

The governor noted that the Hospital–NCI Road project exemplifies the core ideals of his administration’s “OUR EASE” Agenda – a governance blueprint prioritising infrastructure renewal, improved access to social services, and quality of life enhancement. He assured the people that this project was only one of many more to come under his leadership.

In recognising the effort behind the project’s completion, Governor Aiyedatiwa appreciated the contractors, engineers, construction workers, and supervisory teams whose dedication brought the vision to life.

“Your hard work, unwavering commitment to quality standards, steadfast adherence to project timelines, and sheer resilience are deeply appreciated,” he said.

The governor also thanked the residents and communities along the project corridor for their patience and cooperation during the period of construction, acknowledging the temporary inconveniences they endured.

Governor Aiyedatiwa pledged that his administration, guided by the “OUR EASE” Agenda and the broader “Renewed Hope” national development framework championed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, would continue to initiate and complete projects that directly impact the lives of the people. According to him, priority would be given to infrastructural developments that stimulate inclusive economic growth and attract sustainable investments into Ondo State.

“As we continue to move forward, we will consistently prioritise projects that directly impact the lives of our people. Our first 100 days are merely a prelude to sustained action. We are resolute in our determination to build a state that is economically vibrant, socially cohesive and infrastructurally robust,” he said.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Infrastructure, Lands and Housing, Engr Abiola Olawoye, commended the governor for his commitment to reducing the infrastructure deficit across the state.

He noted that the commissioning of the newly constructed 1.5-kilometre Hospital–NCI Road is a clear testament to the administration’s dedication to development. Engr Olawoye further disclosed that contractors are actively working on several other strategic projects within the constituency, including roads in the Ayeyemi, Valentino and Sabo areas of Ondo City.

In their separate remarks, Hon Abiola Makinde, member representing Ondo East/Ondo West Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, and Hon MoyinOlorun Ogunwumiju, member representing Ondo West Constituency 1 in the Ondo State House of Assembly, expressed deep appreciation to the governor on behalf of the people.

They praised him for fulfilling key campaign promises, especially in the area of infrastructure development, and described the road project as a symbol of responsive and impactful leadership.

As the governor marked his 100 days in office, both lawmakers reaffirmed their support for his administration and pledged to continue working closely with him to deliver more dividends of democracy to their constituents.

The Chairman of Ondo West Local Government, Hon Ayotunde Akinfolarin, also expressed gratitude to Governor Aiyedatiwa for prioritising projects that directly benefit the grassroots. He described the road commissioning as a historic event for the people of Ondo City and lauded the governor’s people-centred approach to governance.

Representing the Osemawe and Paramount Ruler of Ondo Kingdom, Oba Dr Victor Adesimbo Kiladejo, the Lisa of Ondo Kingdom, High Chief Simeon Oguntimehin, conveyed the monarch’s goodwill and appreciation to the governor. He applauded the state government for the visible transformation taking place in Ondo City and urged the people to remain supportive of the administration. High Chief Oguntimehin noted that the road project was highly symbolic, reflecting the government’s responsiveness to the needs of the people and its respect for the traditional institution.

The event was graced by several dignitaries, including the Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami; Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti; Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa; State Chairman of the APC, Engr Ade Adetimehin; Head of Service, Mr Bayo Philip; traditional rulers; members of the State Executive Council; lawmakers from the Ondo State House of Assembly; and other top government officials.