Aiyedatiwa gives green light to Akure overpass, infrastructure initiatives

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has given the green light for the construction of a 2.38-kilometre flyover bridge in Akure, as well as a slew of other infrastructure, health, education, and water projects across Ondo State.

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This development was announced by the Commissioner for Infrastructure, Lands and Housing, Abiola Olawoye, who revealed that the flyover will be built along Oba Adesida Road, stretching from Adegbola Junction to St Matthias/NNPC filling station in the Alagbaka area.

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The approval was part of the resolutions reached at the State Executive Council meeting, which was presided over by Governor Aiyedatiwa, according to Olawoye.

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Olawoye explained that traffic studies have identified the Alagbaka–FUTA corridor as one of the busiest and most congested routes in the state capital, making the flyover a necessary long-term solution.

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The contractor is set to begin preliminary surveys ahead of construction, marking the first step in bringing the project to life.

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The council also gave the nod to several other road and infrastructure projects across the state, including canalisation works in Ilaje Local Government Area and the construction of concrete walkways in coastal communities.

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Other approved projects include the rehabilitation and asphalt overlay of the Ayedun–Akure/Owo Expressway, the construction of the Oba–Ikun–Afo–Idoani Road, and the rehabilitation of the Arigidi–Oke Agbe Road.

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In the education sector, the council approved the upgrade of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo, to the University of Agricultural Science and Technology, a move driven by the growing demand for university education in the state.

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According to Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun, the upgraded institution will feature faculties in agriculture, science, technology, and engineering.

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The council also approved the procurement of radiodiagnostic and specialised equipment for the University of Medical Sciences Teaching Hospital, Ondo, which includes MRI, CT scan, ultrasound machines, mammography systems, X-ray machines, and theatre equipment.

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Commissioner for Health, Dr Banji Awolowo-Ajaka, noted that the new equipment will improve healthcare delivery and medical training at the hospital.

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The council also gave its approval for counterpart funding for the rehabilitation of the Owena Dam, a project aimed at improving potable water supply to Akure and surrounding communities.

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Commissioner for Water Resources, Ayodele Akande, revealed that the project, which is about 40 per cent completed, is being supported by development partners including the World Bank, African Development Bank, and French Development Bank.

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The meeting also saw the approval of the appointment of Oba Samuel Odimayo as the new Olofun of Irele in Irele Local Government Area, following community demands for the installation of a traditional ruler.