President Bola Tinubu has flagged off the reconstruction and dualisation of the 58-kilometre Ibadan-Ijebu-Ode road while approving the immediate reconstruction and dualisation of the Abeokuta-Ibadan road.
The projects are expected to improve transportation and strengthen economic links between Oyo and Ogun states and other parts of the South-West.
Represented by Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun at the flag-off ceremony in Ibadan, Tinubu described the Ibadan-Ijebu-Ode corridor as an important economic route linking Ibadan, Ijebu-Ode and the Lekki economic axis.
He said the project represented the Federal Government’s commitment to addressing critical infrastructure deficits.
“The Ibadan–Ijebu-Ode road is too important to Oyo State, Ogun State, Lagos and, indeed, the entire Nigeria to be left unattended to,” Tinubu said.
He said improved road infrastructure would reduce transportation costs, increase productivity, facilitate the movement of agricultural produce and create economic opportunities.
The project will involve approximately 58 kilometres of dual carriageway constructed with reinforced concrete pavement.
The contractor has committed to completing the project within 24 months.
Minister of Works Dave Umahi also disclosed that Tinubu had directed the immediate reconstruction and dualisation of the 70-kilometre Ibadan-Abeokuta road, with procurement already underway.
Umahi said Oyo State currently had 17 major road projects among the 47 Federal Government projects being executed across the South-West.
He also highlighted other ongoing projects, including the Badagry-Sokoto Road, Oyo-Ogbomoso Road and the resuscitated Oyo-Ibadan Road.
Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, Senator Allwell Onyesoh, said the Ibadan-Ijebu-Ode road was conceived in 1965 during the administration of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
The lawmaker representing Ijebu North, Ijebu East and Ogun Waterside Federal Constituency, Joseph Adegbesan, said the road was crucial to farmers, traders and residents in communities along the corridor.
Chairman of the House Committee on Works, Akin Alabi, said the project would provide relief to residents who had endured the poor condition of the road for years.
Traditional rulers and other stakeholders also welcomed the project, citing its potential to improve economic activity, reduce accidents and enhance security.
The road contract was awarded on May 5, 2026, while construction commenced on July 11. Completion is scheduled for June 10, 2029.
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