Gov. Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti state has inaugurated the newly-constructed Ado-Iyin dual carriage road with a promise to complete other ongoing projects before he leaves office in October 2022.
Nigerian NewsDirect reports that the eight-kilometre road was initially awarded by the Military administration in 1978 but was abandoned shortly after.
Inaugurating the road on Wednesday, Fayemi said its completion, despite the numerous natural challenges faced, brings to fulfillment an age-long yearning of benefitting communities.
He said the road provided the shortest link between Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, and Iyin-Ekiti.
The Governor who revealed that the road would be tolled, said the completion of the first phase of the project would engender socio-economic development in the state.
He said its completion would not only ease the challenges of road users, but would also enhance marketability of farm produce from adjourning communities.
Fayemi maintained that the road, adorned with streetlights and other facilities, would put an end to the unsafe nature of the existing Ado-Iyin road with its undulating alignment and would reduce the traveling time of commuters from 20 minutes to five minutes.
“We are here to celebrate the fulfilment of another promise. The 8-kilometre, dual-carriage way is one of the legacy projects of this administration.
“It was awarded in February, 2019, unfortunately, many challenges were encountered during the course of executing the project.
“One of these challenges was the unexpected volume of buried rocks that has to be blasted. To the glory of God, we surmounted the hurdles and successfully completed the project.
“As a government, we understand and appreciate the importance of good road network to our socio-economic development.
“Good road network will ease the stress of commuters and also enhance the marketability of our farm produce.
“The impact of this new road on the generality of our people can also not be overemphasized.
“The economy of the commuters will be enhanced as a result of reduction in transport fare,” he said.
The Governor commended the contractor for sticking to specifications and promised that the State Government would sustain patronage with performing contractors and terminate deal with non performing ones.
Fayemi charged the benefitting communities to support government in maintaining the road and ensure its durability, with a promise to deal with anyone who abuses or engages in any detrimental activity that can cause damage to the new road.
Earlier, the Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adejugbe, in his remarks, commended Gov. Fayemi for fulfilling his promise to provide good road infrastructures, good governance and others to the people of the State.
The traditional ruler said he is glad he witnessed the flag off of the construction as well as its completion and inauguration.