Ogun Governor, Dapo Abiodun Pledges 18-Month Completion For Abeokuta-Ifo-Ota Highway Reconstruction

By: Abdulwasiu Akintunde 

The Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, provided an assurance that the ongoing work on the Abeokuta-Ifo-Ota highway will reach completion within a period of 18 months. 

This announcement was made during the groundbreaking ceremony and official commencement of the highway reconstruction in Itori, Ewekoro Local Government Area On Friday.

The Governor underscored the strategic importance of the highway, which he described as the second most trafficked road in the country. 

OPEN TELEVISION Naija (OTN) News gathered that Abiodun expressed optimism that the renewed focus and resources committed to the project would restore hope to the people of the state, acknowledging the significant suffering endured by motorists over the years. 

He emphasized that its reconstruction was a critical priority for his administration, leading to the decision to request the Federal Government's approval to take over the project for full rehabilitation. 

Abiodun explained that upon completion, the road would not only enhance the economic prospects of Ogun State but also improve the livelihoods of people across Nigeria and beyond, given its significance to regional commerce, including trade with Benin Republic.

Reflecting on the road's history, Abiodun recalled that the project was first awarded in 2003 but had stagnated due to a lack of sufficient funds. 

Determined to end the prolonged hardship faced by road users, his administration took the bold step of requesting responsibility for the project, which was granted by President Bola Tinubu. 

The Governor noted that the reconstruction will span approximately 70 kilometers, with five separate teams working concurrently on different sections—Ota, Ifo, Papalanto, Ewekoro, and Abeokuta. 

Each team is assigned roughly 15 kilometers, ensuring that the entire stretch will be completed within the projected timeframe.

He emphasized the importance of the collaboration between state and federal authorities in making this project a reality.

The Governor was met with praise from Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, the Olu of Ilaro and Paramount Ruler of Yewaland, who lauded his initiative in taking control of the highway's reconstruction. However, Oba Olugbenle also made a passionate appeal to the contractors, urging them to deliver a high-quality job. He additionally called for the construction of a flyover at the Papalanto junction to mitigate traffic accidents and improve traffic flow.

The State chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Yemi Sanusi, also commended the project, recognizing it as a significant example of the dividends of democracy in action, not just for Ogun State but for Nigeria at large.

OTN News recalls that the ceremony was well-attended by key figures, including members of the House of Representatives, traditional rulers, members of the State Executive Council, transportation union representatives, and students, all of whom expressed optimism about the future of the project.