AKUNGBA-AKOKO, ONDO STATE – In a significant move towards enhancing infrastructural development and public safety, Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, today flagged off the dualization of the Akungba-Ikare Road in Akoko. The project, described as a monumental stride, aims to withstand heavy vehicular traffic and curb incessant accidents in the area.
This initiative brings the Aiyedatiwa administration’s ongoing dualization projects to one in each of the three senatorial districts of the State, with Akure-Idanre in the Central and Igbokoda-Okitipupa in the South already underway.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony held near the main gate of Adekunle Ajasin University in Akungba-Akoko, Governor Aiyedatiwa emphasized that the project transcends mere physical construction. He highlighted its symbolic importance as “a bold statement of purpose and compassion” from his administration, asserting that the Akungba-Ikare corridor is a vital lifeline for the Northern Senatorial District, connecting Ondo State to adjoining federal highways.
The decision to dualize the road, the Governor explained, stemmed from a comprehensive assessment of the region’s needs, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s national vision of prosperity under the Renewed Hope Agenda. He vividly described the daily challenges faced by residents due to the existing narrow and congested road, particularly the frequent fatal accidents. “This is not just another project being initiated within our 100 days in office; it is a monumental stride in our Administration’s journey, a beacon of progress,” Aiyedatiwa stated, adding, “We are not just building infrastructure; we are building resilience and peace of mind for the future of this senatorial district.”
Governor Aiyedatiwa reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to leveraging all available resources to transform Ondo State into a prime destination for investment, education, tourism, and quality living. He assured residents of Akoko that their well-being and advancement are central to his administration’s mission and pledged strict oversight of the project through institutional frameworks established by the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure to ensure accountability.
Engr. Abiola Olawoye, Special Adviser to the Governor on Infrastructure, Lands, and Housing, lauded Governor Aiyedatiwa’s visionary leadership. He described the Akungba-Ikare road dualization as a significant milestone in actualizing the Governor’s “OUR EASE” agenda, which prioritizes urban renewal and ease of transportation.
Providing a technical breakdown, Olawoye stated that the road will span 6.7 kilometers with a 28-meter corridor, including a 3-meter utility lane and a dual carriageway measuring 9.3 meters on each side. The project will also include walkways on both sides for pedestrian safety, traffic lights, and solar-powered streetlights. Notably, the road is engineered to accommodate heavy-duty trucks, common in the commercially and academically vibrant area.
Senator Olajide Ipinsagba, representing Ondo North Senatorial District, hailed the flag-off as a historic milestone for Akoko land, marking the first time such a massive infrastructural project is undertaken in the region. He emphasized its potential to drastically reduce accidents and stimulate economic growth.
Hon. Adefarati Gboyega, representing Akoko South East/South West Federal Constituency, commended Governor Aiyedatiwa for addressing a critical, long-neglected need. The Olubaka of Oka Kingdom, Oba Adebori Adeleye, speaking on behalf of other traditional rulers in Akoko, also extended appreciation for prioritizing the region’s development.
In his vote of thanks, Rt. Hon. Victor Olabimtan, former Deputy Speaker and Chairman of the Ondo State Universal Basic Education Board, credited Governor Aiyedatiwa with making a bold move that will end decades of suffering for the people in the area.
Dignitaries in attendance included Deputy Governor, Dr. Olayide Adelami; Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti; State Chairman of the APC, Engr. Ade Adetimehin; Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo; former Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Alhaji Adbulazeez Oluboyo; traditional rulers; and other top government functionaries.
