By Precious Oluwole
Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa as reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to all that are legally, politically, technologically and institutionally required to make Ondo State the destination to beat for investment, tourism and enhanced quality of life.
The Governor made this reaffirmation on Monday, during the flag-off of the dualization of Igbokoda-Okitipupa road held at the Army Checkpoint, Igbokoda.
According to him, the idea for construction of the dual carriageway, which strategically links other parts of the State to the coastal areas, emerged from a meticulous feasibility study conducted by his administration.
He added that the project resonates deeply with President Tinubu’s profound vision for the accelerated growth of the Marine and Blue Economy across Nigeria, stressing that Ondo State, with its extensive coastline and rich aquatic resources, is perfectly positioned to become a major hub in this burgeoning sector.
He opined that the dualization is, therefore, not just about improving transportation; it is also about unlocking the immense potential that lies within our maritime corridor.
It would recalled that in the twilight of former President Muhammadu Buhari’s Administration, approval for the Ondo Deep Seaport was granted to Ondo State. Governor Aiyedatiwa described this monumental feat as a recognition of Ondo State’s strategic importance in the national quest for accelerated development at the highest levels.
“This Igbokoda – Okitipupa dualization project is, therefore, one of the strategic infrastructure initiatives painstakingly conceived by our Administration to proactively fill the logistical and economic gaps that the development of the Deep Seaport will inevitably present. We are not just reacting to future needs; we are anticipating them and laying the groundwork today.
“It is our fervent resolve to meticulously build up the business ecosystem that will flourish around the Deep Seaport. This involves creating the enabling environment that will ensure genuine ease of doing business when the Deep Seaport comes up to full steam. This is more than just concrete and asphalt; it is about proactive engagement, economic empowerment and fostering the well-being of all citizens.
“This road project is undeniably a monumental step in that direction, a clear signal to the world that Ondo State is ready and open for business and progress. We cannot overemphasise the significance of this project. We aim to kill two birds with one stone with this critical infrastructure investment. Firstly, we are significantly improving the road network in the Southern Senatorial District, which has long awaited such transformative development.
“Secondly, and equally important, we are directly addressing some of the critical metrics on the ease of doing business, reducing logistical bottlenecks and making our State more attractive to entrepreneurs and industrialists. This dual approach exemplifies our dedication to respect and non-aggression in development, ensuring that our progress is inclusive, efficient and considerate of all stakeholders.
He stressed that the vital road network will strategically begin from Igbokoda and extend all the way to the Army Checkpoint, Okitipupa, adding that the multifaceted benefits of this dualization will impact positively on every aspect of life in the Southern senatorial district in particular and Ondo State in general and will create a ripple effect of progress and transformation for the entire State, especially in the areas of enhanced security, travel time reduction, boost in agricultural sector, aesthetics, among others.
The Governor commended the Engineers and Staff of the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure for their tireless efforts, noting that professionalism, diligence, and unwavering commitment are pivotal in ensuring that this crucial infrastructure initiative, along with others going on simultaneously across the State continue unabated.
He solicited for the cooperation and understanding of the people in the course of execution of the dualisation project.
Earlier in his welcome address, Engr. Abiola Olawoye, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Infrastructure, Lands, and Housing, described the project as 27.5 kilometres in length, with 4 metres of road width, 6 metres setback on both sides, and 3 metres reserved for utility services.
“The road corridor is 28 metres, hydraulic structures of 750 by 750 by 150mm thickness in urban area where we have shoulders in undeveloped area and the total length of the hydraulic structure on the road is about 10,500 metres both sides and we also have walkway at 1.5 metres on both sides and the carriage way of the road is 9.3 meters”, he said.
In their goodwill messages, Chairmen of Ilaje and Okitipupa LGAs, Maurice Oripenaye and Andrew Ogunsakin, along with traditional rulers including the Abodi of Ikale, Oba Babatunde Faduyile, and the Amapetu of Mahin Kingdom, Oba Segun Akinyomi, expressed appreciation to the Governor for prioritizing road infrastructure across the district.
Also, the project contractor, Mr. Abdul Gorey, assured the people of commitment to the timely and quality delivery of the project.
The Igbokoda–Okitipupa dualization is one of the signature projects of Governor Aiyedatiwa’s administration, reflecting a governance style anchored on progressive development, accessibility and a better standard of living for the people of Ondo State.
Those present at the event included the Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami, Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Olamide Oladiji, Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti, Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa and the Head of Service, Mr Bayo Philips.
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