Aiyedatiwa Approves New Akure Flyover Construction Alongside Other Road Projects

The Ondo State Government has approved the construction of a new flyover bridge in Akure as part of efforts to enhance transportation efficiency, stimulate economic activities, and ease persistent traffic congestion in the state capital.

According to Ireporter Online, the approval was made during the State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa in Akure on Tuesday.

The Commissioner for Infrastructure, Lands and Housing, Engr. Abiola Olawoye, disclosed this while briefing journalists after the meeting, noting that the flyover project is strategically located along Oba Adesida Road, stretching from Adegbola Junction to the St. Matthias/NNPC Filling Station axis in the Alagbaka area, covering approximately 2.38 kilometres.

Olawoye explained that the decision followed detailed traffic assessments which identified the Alagbaka–Federal University of Technology, Akure corridor as one of the most congested routes in the metropolis, making the flyover a long-term solution to persistent gridlock and mobility challenges.

He added that following the approval, contractors are expected to commence preliminary surveys and technical evaluations ahead of full construction.

Beyond the flyover project, the council also approved several infrastructural developments across the state, including the canalisation of a 40-kilometre main canal from Ugbonla to Awoye, with a spur to Idi Ogba in Ilaje Local Government Area.

Other approvals include the construction of concrete walkways in Obenla and Idiogba communities, as well as township and road projects such as Zion Pepe–Agerige Road, Bayo Phillips Road, Araromi Seaside Road, and selected internal roads within Igboegunrin.

The council further endorsed major road rehabilitation and construction projects spanning various local government areas, including the Irele–Sabomi–Igbotu Road, Agadagba–Ile Ikiri–Igaligbo Road, Okumo–Igodan Lisa Road, and internal roads within the Ondo State University of Medical Sciences, among others across Akure, Owo, Ondo East, Ondo West, Akure North, Ifedore, Idanre, Odigbo, and Ile-Oluji/Oke-Igbo.

Additional road interventions approved include the rehabilitation and asphalt overlay of the Ayedun–Akure/Owo Expressway, construction of the Oba–Ikun–Afo–Idoani Road, Imo Arigidi–Agbaluku Road, and the rehabilitation of the Arigidi–Oke Agbe Road.

In the education sector, the council approved the upgrade of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo, to a university to be known as the University of Agricultural Science and Technology, Owo.

The Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun, said the decision was informed by growing demand for university education and the need to expand access to specialized training in agriculture, science, technology, and engineering. He added that the institution would operate eight faculties with a strong emphasis on innovation and practical skills development.

The council also approved the procurement of advanced radiodiagnostic and medical equipment for the University of Medical Sciences Teaching Hospital, including MRI and CT scan machines, ultrasound systems, mammography units, digital X-ray machines, and other specialised diagnostic tools.

Speaking on the development, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Banji Awolowo-Ajaka, said the investment would significantly strengthen healthcare delivery, enhance diagnostic capacity, and improve medical training in the state.

In the water resources sector, the Executive Council approved counterpart funding for the rehabilitation of the multipurpose Owena Dam project, which is currently about 40 percent completed.

The Commissioner for Water Resources, Public Hygiene and Sanitation, Elder Ayodele Akande, said the project, supported by international development partners including the World Bank, African Development Bank, and French Development Agency, is expected to improve potable water supply across Akure and surrounding communities while reducing waterborne diseases.

The council also approved the appointment of Oba Samuel Odimayo as the new Olofun of Irele in Irele Local Government Area, a move described as part of efforts to strengthen traditional institutions and promote peace in the community.

According to the state government, the series of approvals reflects the Aiyedatiwa administration’s commitment to infrastructure renewal, improved healthcare, expanded educational opportunities, and enhanced social amenities across Ondo State.