Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has announced the completion of 16 out of 22 road projects in Ijebu-Ode Local Government Area since his administration began six years ago.
The governor made this disclosure during the commissioning ceremony of the Awokoya, Igbeba-Yidi Road in Ijebu-Ode on Wednesday. According to him, these infrastructure projects were prioritized due to their significance to the socio-economic wellbeing of residents and to prevent the recurring loss of lives, particularly on the Yidi Road.
"Today, I stand here very proud, standing tall, beating my chest, knowing that since 2019, this administration has awarded 22 roads in Ijebu-Ode alone," Governor Abiodun stated. "Out of the 22 roads we awarded in Ijebu-Ode, we've completed 16 of those roads, while six other roads are ongoing."
Addressing Flooding and Erosion Challenges
The governor recalled that Ijebu-Ode was among the first cities he visited after assuming office on May 29, 2019. The visit was prompted by the need to assess the road conditions firsthand, particularly the flooding and erosion issues plaguing the area.
"I wanted to have an on-the-spot assessment of the situation of our roads in Ijebu-Ode, and what was brought to my attention were particularly the flooding and erosion issues that Ijebu-Ode was experiencing. I made a promise that my administration would ensure that these issues become history," he said.
Governor Abiodun reaffirmed his commitment to equitable distribution of development projects across all parts of the state, emphasizing that his responsibility as governor is to ensure comprehensive development throughout Ogun State.
Beyond Infrastructure: Cultural and Sports Development
The governor highlighted that with the recent hosting of the National Sports Festival, Ogun State has expanded its reputation beyond being the industrial and education capital to becoming Nigeria's sports and cultural capital. He attributed this progress to the resilient spirit of Ogun residents.
While assuring Ijebuland residents of an eventful Ojude Oba Festival this year, Governor Abiodun noted that his administration has elevated the cultural celebration to international standards.
Stakeholders Commend Road Projects
Former Deputy Governor of the state, Chief Yetunde Onanuga, expressed gratitude to the governor for addressing the long-standing poor condition of the road, which had caused significant hardship for motorists. She acknowledged the numerous infrastructural developments the governor has implemented in Ijebu-Ode and surrounding areas.
Hon. Olufemi Ogunbamwo, representing Ijebu-Ode, Odogbolu, and Ijebu North East Federal Constituency at the National Assembly, observed that Governor Abiodun's six-year tenure has brought substantial socio-economic development to Ijebu-Ode and Ogun State at large. He described the road project as evidence of the administration's people-centered approach.
The Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, praised the governor for the unprecedented even distribution of projects across the state and for his favorable policies toward state workers.
Engr. Ade Akinsanya, Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, noted that the roads were previously in deplorable condition and susceptible to flooding. He stated that with their reconstruction, area residents would experience significant relief.
