By; Afees Adedoja Omo’ba , member GSM Advocates
While the opposition party, APC, stagnates, Governor Makinde’s administration remains focused on progress. The Oyo State Executive Council has approved several multi-billion-naira projects, focusing on infrastructure development, sports, and environmental sustainability, further enhancing the state’s growth and development.
The approvals, part of the present administration’s commitment to balanced development across the state, totalled over N113 billion.
Ojoo Interchange – IITA – Moniya Junction – Akinyele Interchange Road (13.6km):To be reconstructed into a six-lane dual carriageway with spurs to the New Oyo Expressway. Approved at N63.6 billion, with an 18-month completion period. This major artery links Ibadan to Oyo and Ogbomoso. It will reduce traffic congestion at Ojoo, ease the movement of farm produce from Moniya and Akinyele axis and stimulate commerce by providing faster access to the Ibadan Dry Port.
Okaka Junction – Otu – Igbojaiye – KAP Film Village Road (30km): Includes Reconstruction and road rehabilitation, with bridges over the Otu and Ofiki Rivers. Approved at N26.4 billion, with an 18-month timeline. This project will open up Oke Ogun communities,ease transportation of agriculture produce to markets, support rural development, and improve access to the KAP Film Village, thereby boosting tourism and creative economy in Oyo State.
Ajia Junction (Ibadan-Ife Interchange) – Nigeria Air Force Base Road (6.2km):
Approved for dualisation at the cost of N17.1 billion, to be completed within 12 months. This project will ease access to Ibadan Airport enhance security presence in the area, support military operations, and open up Ajia and EGBEDA axis for residential and business development.
Isaba–Ogundoyin Road and Eruwa Township Roads (2.65km combined): Covering Isaba–Ogundoyin Road (0.75km) and Lanlate Garage–Adeseun Ogundoyin Polytechnic–Oke Ola Junction Road (1.9km). Approved at N4.1 billion, with a 12-month completion period. These roads will ease students and staff access to the Adeseun Ogundoyin Polytechnic, reduce travel time within Eruwa township, and strengthen connectivity in Ibarapa zone, thereby supporting education and local business activities.
Apete – Awotan – Akufo Road (12km) and extension to Akufo Farm Settlement Road (2.2km):Completion of ongoing works with expanded scope, approved at N1.9 billion. This will directly support farmers at the Akufo Farm Settlement, improve access for agribusiness investors, and encourage food production and distribution from the settlement into Ibadan city.
Maintenance Works in Ibadan Metropolis:
Limited patching of selected roads, thermoplastic road marking, and kerb painting at N444.7 million.This will improve road safety, reduce accidents, beautify urban roads, and prolong the lifespan of existing road infrastructure across Ibadan.
The council also approved N110 million for the camping and hosting of Nigeria’s Under-20 female national football team in Ibadan. The team is preparing for the Women’s World Cup qualifying match against Rwanda. This will promote Ibadan as a hub for national and international sporting events,boost youth and women’s football, create hospitality business opportunities, and inspire young athletes across the state.
To promote climate resilience and beautification, the ExCo approved N108 million for the planting of economic trees along the 32km South-East Wing of the 110km Rashidi Ladoja Circular Road, Ibadan. Beyond beautification, this project will improve sir quality, combat climate change, prevent erosion, and eventually serve as a source of economic value through timber and fruits
APC members in Oyo State have maintained silence since the announcement, likely due to their reputation for manipulation. Meanwhile, the good people of Oyo State are not receptive to such tactics at this time.
These projects will not only improve connectivity and ease of doing business across the state but also foster economic opportunities, create jobs, and enhance the wellbeing of our people.
