By Fredrick Ameh
Nigeria’s Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima has commissioned the Onyearugbulem Shagari/Irese Road Flyover in Akure.
Hailing the project, Shettima described it as a major infrastructure milestone expected to boost industrial growth, ease traffic congestion, and improve economic activities along the corridor.
The Vice President, who performed the commissioning along the Ilesha Akure Owo Expressway, said the project would significantly improve traffic flow, enhance road safety, and open up the axis for increased commercial activities.
He commended the Ondo State Government for what he described as a timely intervention at a critical transport junction, noting that infrastructure development remains central to economic expansion and regional connectivity.
Speaking at the event, the Ondo State Governor, Dr Lucky Aiyedatiwa, described the project as the beginning of a historic achievement in his administration’s infrastructure drive.
He explained that the flyover was designed to permanently address the long-standing gridlock and accident risks at the Onyearugbulem Shagari and Irese junction, which had previously slowed economic activity and caused recurrent traffic delays.
The governor noted that the project was initiated under the late former governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, and sustained by his administration to ensure continuity and completion.
He maintained that the flyover remains one of the flagship infrastructural achievements of his administration, saying it has already improved traffic flow, reduced travel time, and enhanced safety along the busy Akure corridor.
Governor Aiyedatiwa further commended the contractors, engineers, consultants, and workers who delivered the project, noting that it was executed largely by indigenous professionals who demonstrated strong technical competence and capacity.
He also expressed appreciation to residents of Akure for their patience and cooperation during the construction phase, assuring that the infrastructure would serve the state efficiently for many years to come.
Dignitaries present at the commissioning included members of the state executive council, traditional rulers, security chiefs, and other prominent stakeholders.
