The Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, yesterday commissioned the newly reconstructed Awokoya-Igbeba-Yidi Road in Ijebu-Ode, praising his administration’s efforts in transforming infrastructure across the state. He proudly announced that since the inception of his administration in 2019, over 1,200 kilometers of roads have been completed across Ogun State — a milestone he described as unprecedented in the state’s history.
While highlighting the importance of road infrastructure to the socio-economic development of communities, Governor Abiodun drew special attention to Ijebu-Ode Local Government Area, where his government has undertaken 22 road projects, successfully completing 16 so far, with six still ongoing.
Speaking passionately during the event, the governor recalled his early days in office:
“When I assumed office on May 29, 2019, one of the first cities I visited was Ijebu-Ode. It wasn’t a coincidence. I wanted to assess firsthand the condition of the roads here. What I found was alarming — massive flooding and erosion that had plagued residents for years.”
He went on to lament the state of the township roads at the time, describing them as deplorable and suggesting that past administrations had neglected the region. He stated firmly:
“I don’t know whether the previous governments were punishing Ogun East or Ijebu-Ode specifically, but I made a vow that this neglect would become history. Today, I stand proud knowing that our administration has awarded 22 road projects in Ijebu-Ode alone, with 16 already completed.”
Governor Abiodun emphasized the need to celebrate and document developmental achievements:
“If we don’t count our blessings, we may fail to appreciate what has been done. Politicians often suffer from short-term memory — once a project is completed, attention quickly shifts to the next. But it’s important we remind ourselves of the progress we’ve made.”
He concluded his remarks with a prayer that the grace which enabled the successful completion of the 16 roads would also see to the timely completion of the remaining six and even more projects in the area.
The governor reiterated his commitment to equity and fairness in the distribution of developmental projects across Ogun State. He assured residents that no region would be left behind, pointing out that his administration recently commissioned a road project in Oke Irinja — a relatively obscure town in Yewa South — as proof of his inclusive governance strategy.
“We are committed to fair, just, and equitable development. As we commission projects in Ogun East, we are doing the same in Ogun West and Ogun Central. This is not by accident; it is a deliberate policy aimed at improving lives across the board,” he stated.
In his broader remarks, Governor Abiodun noted that Ogun State has grown to become not only the industrial and educational capital of Nigeria but also the sporting and cultural capital. He attributed this growth to the “can-do” spirit of the people, referencing the successful hosting of the National Sports Festival and the elevation of the Ojude Oba Festival to international standards.
Goodwill messages poured in from various dignitaries at the commissioning:
Chief (Mrs) Yetunde Onanuga, former Deputy Governor of Ogun State, described the road’s previous state as a nightmare for motorists. She praised the governor for responding to the long-standing needs of the people.
Hon. Olufemi Ogunbanwo, representing Ijebu-Ode, Odogbolu, and Ijebu North-East Federal Constituency in the National Assembly, lauded the governor’s impact over the past six years, stating that the road commissioning is a clear demonstration of people-centered governance.
Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, Ogun State Head of Service, acknowledged the governor’s efforts in evenly spreading developmental projects across the state and commended his administration’s goodwill towards civil servants.
Addressing reporters, Onasanya further emphasized the administration’s commitment to equity and fairness:
“As the governor is commissioning projects in Ogun East, similar projects are ongoing in Ogun West and Ogun Central. This is a clear reflection of the administration’s intention to make life better for all citizens.”
The Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Ade Akinsanya, provided technical context, noting that the roads had been in a poor and flood-prone condition before reconstruction. He affirmed that the upgrades would bring significant relief to residents and road users.
Elder James Dina, Deputy Chairman of the APC in Ogun State speaking also with reporters, praised the governor’s efforts and urged residents to reciprocate the gesture by taking proper care of the new infrastructure. He advised against practices such as indiscriminately dumping waste into drainage systems, especially during the rainy season, as such behavior undermines the durability of the roads.
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