Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, on Wednesday officially flagged off the dualization of the Akure-Idanre Road, fulfilling a major campaign promise and advancing his administration’s infrastructure agenda.
The flag-off ceremony took place at Arakale-Oke-Aro Junction in Akure, marking the commencement of Phase 1 of the project — a 10-kilometre stretch from Cashhold Junction to KM10 on the Akure-Idanre corridor.
Designed to accommodate heavy traffic, the new road will feature a 28-metre wide carriageway, modern traffic systems, solar-powered streetlights, dual lanes of 9.3 metres each, 1.5-metre walkways, 3-metre utility bays, line drains, medians, and traffic lights at key intersections.
Speaking at the event, Governor Aiyedatiwa reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building infrastructure that promotes prosperity and economic growth.
“This project stands as a powerful testimony to the resolve of our administration to build an Ondo State where opportunities are not just promised but are accessible,” he said.
He highlighted the importance of the road under the “OUR EASE” 7-Point Development Agenda, calling it a vital economic artery long affected by congestion and safety issues due to its outdated structure.
“For what has seemed like an eternity, this road has been a source of daily frustration for commuters and a bottleneck for agricultural produce movement from Idanre to Akure. Today, we begin to change that story,” he added.
Governor Aiyedatiwa emphasized the project’s potential to boost tourism to the famed Idanre Hills, enhance trade, create jobs, and improve overall mobility. He assured the public that the project would be executed to the highest standards and completed on schedule.
He also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for strengthening states’ fiscal capacities, enabling developmental projects, and promised the completion of all ongoing road projects in the state.
Special Adviser on Infrastructure, Lands and Housing, Engr. Olawoye Ayorinde Abiola, praised the governor’s focus on impactful development, describing the Akure-Idanre Road as a strategic initiative to ease transportation and stimulate growth.
Engr. Abiola assured that the project would be executed with strict adherence to quality standards and future-proofed for expansion.
Local leaders, including Akure South Chairman Gbenga Fasua and Idanre Chairman Smart Omotadowa, hailed the project as a milestone that will enhance development and connectivity between the two communities.
House of Representatives member for Idanre/Ifedore, Hon. Festus Akingbaso, commended the government’s responsiveness and pledged continued support for people-focused initiatives.
Managing Director of Roosco Construction Ltd, Mr. Marcel Alrouss, provided technical insights, confirming that the dualization includes drainage systems, walkways, and safety features. He pledged timely delivery and strict quality compliance.
The Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, Odundun II, lauded the governor’s commitment to developing the state capital through meaningful infrastructure.
The event was attended by Deputy Governor Dr. Olayide Adelami, SSG Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti, Chief of Staff Prince Segun Omojuwa, Finance Commissioner Mrs. Omowumi Isaac, Head of Service Mr. Bayo Philip, APC State Chairman Engr. Ade Adetimehin, and other dignitaries including lawmakers, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and residents.
