…Names it after Archbishop Ayo Ladigbolu

Governor ’Seyi Makinde has officially inaugurated the newly dualised 5.9‑kilometre Akobo–Ojurin–Olorunda Abaa–Eniosa Junction Road in Oyo State.

Represented by Deputy Governor Barrister Abdulraheem Bayo Lawal, the governor described the project as further proof of his administration’s commitment to infrastructure development across the state.

Makinde initiated the construction and dualisation of the Akobo–Ojurin Road and Akobo Flyover in his first term, while the 5.6‑kilometre Ojurin–Olorunda Abaa section was launched in 2023. He confirmed that the road has been named in honour of Archbishop Ayo Ladigbolu for his significant contributions to the state’s growth.

“This commissioning represents the fulfilment of an election promise to provide a vital transport link that connects communities and drives economic activity in Lagelu Local Government and beyond,” Makinde stated. 

“This once‑neglected route has been upgraded to world‑class standards with full dualisation, solar‑powered streetlights, drainage systems and newly tarred access roads to improve safety and connectivity.”

The governor noted that the project is part of a broader dual carriageway corridor running from Idi‑Ape to Basorun, Akobo‑Ojurin, Olorunda Abaa and Eniosa Junction. He described the route as a “lifeline” for rural communities, expected to boost trade, facilitate transport and raise living standards.

Makinde also referenced other major infrastructure undertakings, including the 76.7‑kilometre Ogbomoso–Fapote–Iseyin Road, the 34.85‑kilometre Oyo–Iseyin Road, the dualisation of the 12.5‑kilometre Challenge–Odo Ona–Elewe–Apata Road, the reconstruction of Moniya–Iseyin Road, and the Airport–Ajia–New Ife Expressway with its spur to Amuloko. 

Projects such as the Ibadan Circular Road, he said, further demonstrate the administration’s drive to expand economic opportunities through improved infrastructure.

He commended Lagelu Local Government for delivering the landmark project, echoing the achievements of Ido Local Government, which completed the 10.3‑kilometre Omi Adio–Ido Junction Road in December 2023.

“Under the Omituntun 2.0 roadmap, all 33 local government areas in the state are benefiting from people‑centred projects, including roads, health facilities, model schools, rural electrification and water schemes. No community is being left behind,” he stressed.

Makinde called on residents to continue supporting his administration, citing prudent management of resources and a people‑first governance model as the foundation for Oyo State’s ongoing progress.

Executive Chairman of Lagelu Local Government Hon. Kamorudeen Mudashiru expressed appreciation to the governor for his consistent backing, stating that the road was fully conceived, awarded and completed by the local government. He remarked that the project illustrates the effectiveness of Oyo State’s approach to local government autonomy.

Engr. Okoro Hyginus of Messrs Samchase Nigeria Limited, the contractor responsible for the project, praised the state government for entrusting the company with the work and thanked Lagelu residents for their cooperation. 

He noted that the dualised road’s durable surface will accommodate heavier traffic, enhance mobility and accessibility, and boost economic activity in Akobo, Olorunda Abaa and surrounding areas.