Ekiti approves N24.28bn for road projects

The Ekiti State Government has approved a total of N24.28 billion for various road projects aimed at improving infrastructure across the state.

The Commissioner for Information, Taiwo Olatunbosun, disclosed on Tuesday in Ado Ekiti that the approval was part of the decisions reached during the State Executive Council meeting held on Monday.

He highlighted the key road projects included in the approved budget.

According to Olatunbosun, N7.007 billion has been allocated for additional work on the Igbara Odo-Ikogosi Road rehabilitation.

The initial contract, awarded to Messrs Dortmund and Company Limited on June 14, 2023, was reportedly nearing completion, but further work was deemed necessary to address failing sections of the road with asphalt overlays.

The council also approved N7.876 billion for the rehabilitation of the Itawure-Okemesi Road, which Olatunbosun described as “severely damaged by waterlogging.”

He said, “The rehabilitation will ease the hardship faced by residents, boost economic activities in the area, and enhance safety along the route.”

The contract, awarded to Messrs K.K Hassan Ltd, has a 12-month completion timeline.

Additionally, N4.766 billion was earmarked for the reconstruction of Ikogosi township roads. Olatunbosun stated, “This aligns with Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s infrastructure agenda, especially as Ikogosi is home to a major tourism site.”

The reconstruction covers critical routes, including the Warm Spring Link Road, Erigbe Road, Inuja Road, and several others.

For Ado Ekiti, the council approved N2.708 billion for the extension of GRA Phase III (Ajila Jakande Crescent – TAJ Suites Hotel Road), with Messrs Rudy Construction Company given nine months to complete the additional works.

The council also approved N1.158 billion for the construction of the Ori Agere-Ijoka-Oke Age road and the rehabilitation of the Idolofin-Yahweh road.

“This will ease traffic congestion in business districts and connect Oja Oba with Oke Ila-Afao road, boosting socio-economic activities in Ado Ekiti,” Olatunbosun added.

Furthermore, N767.8 million has been approved for constructing the Ilawe-Erijinyan Link Road, awarded to Messrs Wals and Funs Nigeria Ltd.

The commissioner noted that the road, once completed, will shorten travel time to Erijinyan Ekiti and Ikogosi Ekiti, thus enhancing agribusiness and general socio-economic activities in the region.