By Precious Oluwole
The Commissioner for Infrastructure, Lands and Housing, Engr. Abiola Olawoye, has assured residents of Ondo State of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa’s sustained commitment to infrastructure development, as the state marks its 50th anniversary.
Speaking in an interview, Olawoye said the current administration is prioritising long-term, durable infrastructure projects capable of supporting economic growth, enhancing security and improving the quality of life of residents across the state.
He explained that the government has embarked on several major road construction projects, including dual carriageways and critical link roads, noting that many of the projects are extensive in scope and cannot be completed within a short period.
He said “The project started with construction of a dual carriageway from Akure to Idanre, about 10 km. After that, we awarded construction of a dual carriageway from Akungba to Ikare, about 6.7 km. We moved down to Omotoso to Iju-Odo, that’s about a 24 km single lane.
“In Irele local government, we also awarded Akotogbo road, as well as Ajagba – Iyansan, about 27 km.
“We also have some other road construction that are on going through the direct labour, asphalt overlay of First bank axis, NEPA roundabout, Shoprite and Igbatoro road”.
He stressed that other projects awarded includes; Akure–Ijare road, about 9.5 km, Imafon, about 6 km single carriageway, Danjuma road, about 4.5 km.
Olawoye emphasised that the government deliberately avoided embarking on short, cosmetic projects meant only for quick commissioning, stressing that the administration is focused on delivering lasting infrastructure rather than rushing projects for political gains.
“These are large-scale projects that require time. You cannot complete 10 or 24 kilometres of a dual carriageway within a year, considering the scope of work, seasonal challenges and the need to ensure quality”.
He reassured residents that the government remains transparent in its approach and would not mislead the people with incomplete projects, stressing that Governor Aiyedatiwa is committed to laying a solid infrastructure foundation that future administrations can build upon.
Olawoye , however, called on residents to take ownership of public infrastructure by protecting road corridors from harmful practices such as burning of tyres, boiling of diesel and other activities that damage asphalt pavements.
He also urged communities to support drainage maintenance, especially during the rainy season, to prevent flooding and prolong the lifespan of rehabilitated roads.
Addressing concerns over traffic congestion in parts of Akure, Olawoye clarified that measure including road widening, removal of dividers and improved enforcement would help ease traffic challenges which are more pronounced along Oba Adesida road.
He congratulated the people of Ondo State on the Golden Jubilee celebration, expressing optimism that the legacy projects initiated by Governor Aiyedatiwa would further position the state for sustainable development.
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