Ondo State Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa on Sunday flagged off the construction of an 8.5-kilometre dual carriageway in Ilaje Local Government Area.
Simultaneously, he commissioned a six-kilometre NDDC Road in Igbokoda, thus
intensifying his administration’s infrastructure drive in the state’s oil-rich riverine communities.
At the commissioning of the landmark NDDC Road which runs from College Road through Okoga Junction to Irewole Roundabout, the governor said:
“The project we witness today transcends the mere pouring of asphalt or laying of stones; it is about easing the burdens of daily life for every man, woman and child across the Ilaje axis.
“By commissioning this vital road, we are unlocking new vistas of opportunity for our coastal communities and reinforcing our resolve to connect our people to progress.”
Highlighting the strategic significance of the road in enhancing mobility and connectivity within Igbokoda and neighbouring communities, he notied that it will act as a catalyst for socio-economic advancement and regional integration.
His words, “Our primary objective has always been your comfort and safety. We envisioned a road that would endure the test of time, minimise recurrent maintenance, and guarantee secure and swift journeys for all who use it.”
He stressed that the project was executed to the highest standards, taking into account local terrain challenges and seasonal flooding.
Besides, he noted that the NDDC Road forms part of a wider developmental agenda initiated within his first year in office.
He said, “Across the Southern Senatorial District, from the fourteen kilometres of roads completed in Okitipupa, Irele and Igbotako to the significant milestone we celebrate here today, we continue to affirm that our word is our bond.
“Yet, this is only the beginning. We shall not relent until every nook and cranny of Ondo State experiences the tangible dividends of purposeful governance.”
At the flag-off of the 8.5-kilometre dual carriageway, the Governor described the project as a modern urban arterial corridor designed to improve traffic flow, enhance road safety, and support socio-economic activities in Igbokoda and adjoining communities.
Aiyedatiwa emphasised that the initiative aligns with his administration’s broader infrastructure agenda, which focuses on connectivity, economic accessibility and inclusive growth across Ondo State.
“Upgrading this corridor to dual carriageway standard reduces travel time, lowers vehicle operating costs, and fosters commerce, investment inflows, and structured urban expansion in the coastal region,” he stated.
He added that the project would stimulate local economic activity, enhance land value, improve access to public services, and generate employment during and after construction. Relevant agencies have been tasked to ensure strict adherence to quality, timelines, and value for public funds.
Referencing other ongoing projects in the Southern Senatorial District, Governor Aiyedatiwa assured residents of timely completion for the 28-kilometre Ajagba–Iju Osun–Akotogbo Road, the 22-kilometre Omotosho–Igbotako–Iju Odo Road, and the 27-kilometre Okitipupa–Igbokoda dual carriageway.
On the oil well at Eba Island in Atijere community, Governor Aiyedatiwa clarified that the island remains part of Ondo State despite ongoing boundary disputes with Ogun State. He stressed that the Eba land lies firmly within the Atijere axis and has not been ceded.
Engr. Ayorinde Olawoye, Commissioner for and Infrastructure, Lands and Housing, in his welcome address, lauded the Governor’s visionary leadership, noting that the NDDC Road spans six kilometres with an average width of 10.3 metres.
He enumerated other completed roads within the administration’s first year, including Nigeria Delta Road, Igbokoda; Igbotako Road; FCMB Road, Igbokoda; Omotehinse Road, Igbokoda; Onaopemipo, Okitipupa; Ali Balogun Road, Okitipupa; Ade–Adeyemi Road, Okitipupa; Oke–Raye Road, Okitipupa; Ola–Oluwa Road; Ewi Road, Okitipupa; Luwa Road, Irele; Mobayode Road, Irele; Mobil Road, Ore; Bumes Road, Pre; VIO Road; and Mobas Garage.
The Chairman of Ilaje Local Government, Moris Oripenaye, described the governor as an exemplary leader whose projects have made citizens proud.
The Olugbo of Ugbo, Oba Frederick Obateru Akinruntan, commended the Governor, stating: “You make us proud”. He noted that the roads and projects inaugurated demonstrate the governor’s commitment to development.
In attendance were the Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami; Speaker, State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji; Chief Judge, Justice Olusegun Odusola; Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa; Members of the State Executive Council; Members of the State House of Assembly; Director-General, OSRC Media Group, Mr Kenneth Odusola-Stevenson; Chairman, SUBEB, Rt. Hon. Victor Olabimtan; Local Government Chairmen; APC Chieftains; Traditional Rulers; Religious leaders; Political appointees; and other dignitaries.
