…promises completion of Ijoka road, Onyearugbulem/Shagari Flyover bridge

By Adedotun Ajayi

Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has reiterated his administration’s resolve to complete all inherited infrastructure projects across the state, declaring that neither the popular Ijoka Road nor the Onyearugbulem/Shagari Bridge will be abandoned.

Aiyedatiwa made this known while commissioning the newly completed Oda Road in Akure South Local Government area, describing the event as a major milestone in his administration’s commitment to impactful development.

During the event, the governor expressed his appreciation to God and the people of Ondo State for their support and patience throughout the course of the project.

“This project is a testament to meticulous planning, dedication, and the collective will of our administration to deliver on promises made to the people. When I assumed office as the seventh democratically elected governor on February 24, 2025, I pledged to prioritise infrastructural development and enhance the welfare of our people. Today’s commissioning is a fulfillment of that pledge,” he said.

The governor emphasised that his government will not abandon projects started by his predecessors, stressing that both the Ijoka Road and the Onyearugbulem/Shagari Bridge will be completed despite public concerns and negative media narratives.

He disclosed that the Oda Road project, though inherited, was completed after a rigorous auditing process with the contractor, Dortnud Construction Company, which he commended for its understanding and cooperation.

“I want to tell the good people of Ondo State that those roads will be completed. There might be delays because they are inherited projects, and we had to first verify the financial commitments, review contractor engagements, and ensure prudence in spending. But we are moving forward,” he stated

According to the governor, the road project aligns with the 2025 Budget of Recovery, which allocates a significant percentage of the state’s budget to capital expenditure. He added that this approach is designed to unlock the economic potential of communities through improved infrastructure.

Highlighting the economic and social benefits of the Oda Road, Aiyedatiwa noted that the completed road had already eased traffic congestion, improved access to public institutions, and boosted the value of real estate and small businesses in the area.

“This road used to cause serious delays. Workers would spend hours trying to get to work or back home. But today, you can drive from Oda to the State Secretariat in under 10 minutes. Property values have gone up, and the entire community is now more economically vibrant,” he noted.

He urged residents to take ownership of the project, stressing the importance of proper maintenance and discouraging practices that damage public infrastructure, such as burning tires on asphalt roads or improper waste disposal.

“This road is now yours. Protect it. Don’t vandalise what belongs to you. Let’s ensure that this project serves us for years to come,” he advised.

Aiyedatiwa also used the occasion to reaffirm his administration’s broader development agenda, promising that more life-changing projects will be executed across the state in the months ahead.

“As we progress in 2025, we will continue to implement our Budget of Recovery, complete ongoing projects, and launch new ones that will create jobs, enhance trade, and position Ondo State as a leader in the Niger Delta and across Nigeria,” he added.

In his welcome address, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Infrastructure, Lands, and Housing, Mr. Olawoye Abiola, described the occasion as a strong testament to the Ondo State Government’s unwavering commitment to infrastructural development across all 18 local government areas of the state.

Abiola emphasised that the Oda Road project, which spans a total length of 7.8 kilometers, is a vivid example of the government’s resolve to transform critical infrastructure and ease the movement of people and goods within the state.

He explained that the project consists of two sections: a dual carriageway stretching 4 kilometers, which has been fully completed, and a single carriageway covering 3.8 kilometers, which is also now ready for public use.

In addition, robust drainage infrastructure was put in place, with a hydraulic section measuring 900mm by 900mm and a thickness of 150mm to effectively manage stormwater and prevent flooding.

“A central median of 1.2 meters was also incorporated into the road design to enhance traffic safety and aesthetics,” he added.

Abiola commended the technical team and contractor for their commitment and professionalism, stating that the successful execution of the project reflects the broader vision of Aiyedatiwa’s administration to deliver people-focused infrastructure that meets the highest standards.

Also speaking at the event, the Chairman of Akure South Local Government, Hon. Gbenga Fasua, noted that the newly commissioned Oda Road serves as a critical access route to several essential facilities within the area. According to him, the road passes through a number of schools, healthcare centres, residential communities, and commercial areas, making it a vital corridor for both social and economic activities.

Fasua emphasised that the completion of the road will significantly ease the movement of students, healthcare workers, patients, traders, and commuters. He added that before the reconstruction, the road was in a deplorable state, causing delays, increased vehicle maintenance costs, and limited access to important public services.

He commended the state government for prioritising infrastructure that directly impacts the lives of the people and expressed optimism that the project would contribute to the socio-economic growth of the local government.

Also, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, the Deji of Akure, expressed profound appreciation to the Ondo State Governor on behalf of the people of Akure Kingdom.

He commended the governor for the successful completion of the Oda Road project, describing it as a landmark achievement that reflects the administration’s responsiveness to the needs of the people.

The Deji also prayed for continued wisdom and strength for the governor in his efforts to transform the state through meaningful and impactful projects.

Meanwhile, Hon. Oguntodu Olajide Johnson, a member of the Ondo State House of Assembly representing Akure South Constituency 1, lauded the governor for his integrity and commitment to fulfilling promises.

He described the governor as a leader who does not make empty declarations but rather backs his words with concrete actions that positively impact the lives of the people.

He further urged the people of Akure South to continue supporting the governor as his administration delivers on its developmental agenda.