TINUBU FLAGS OFF 58km IBADAN –IJEBU-ODE DUALISATION, APPROVES ABEOKUTA –IBADAN RECONSTRUCTION

A Move to Reconnect South-West’s Economic Heartbeat

IBADAN, OYO STATE*

— President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Monday flagged off the long-awaited reconstruction and dualisation of the 58-kilometre Ibadan–Ijebu-Ode Road while also approving the immediate dualisation of the Abeokuta–Ibadan Road — two critical projects set to transform transportation and commerce across the South-West.

The President, represented by Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun, performed the ceremony at the open field of Legacy Estate, Idi-Ape, Ibadan.

Describing the Ibadan–Ijebu-Ode corridor as “a major economic artery,” President Tinubu said the road connects Ibadan, Ijebu-Ode, and the Lekki economic axis, with links to Lagos and the rest of Nigeria.  

“For too long, this road has been a bottleneck to progress. Today, the Renewed Hope Agenda moves from promise to action,” the President stated.  

“This is a decisive statement that no critical infrastructure deficit will be ignored, and no strategic economic corridor will be allowed to stand in the way of our collective prosperity.”

He noted that the dualisation would:  

1. Improve mobility and cut travel time between Oyo and Ogun  

2. Strengthen commerce for farmers, traders, and manufacturers  

3. Reduce transportation costs and accident rates  

4. Create jobs and open new opportunities along the corridor

The Ibadan–Ijebu-Ode project covers approximately 58km of dual carriageway. It will be built with continuous reinforced concrete pavement for durability, safety, and long-term value.  

- Awarded: May 5, 2026  

- Commenced: July 11, 2026  

- Expected Completion: June 10, 2029  

- Contractor: JRB — described by the Minister of Works as one of Nigeria’s best-equipped indigenous firms  

President Tinubu charged the contractor to mobilize fully and deliver within 24 months, and urged host communities to cooperate and avoid encroachment or disruptions.

In addition, the Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, disclosed that the President has directed the *immediate reconstruction and dualisation of the 70km Abeokuta–Ibadan Road*. Procurement for that project is already ongoing.

*WHAT LEADERS ARE SAYING*  

*Senator Allwell Onyesoh*, Chairman Senate Committee on Works, recalled that the Ibadan–Ijebu-Ode road was first conceived by Chief Obafemi Awolowo in 1965. “Tinubu’s decision to modernise it will reduce travel time and save lives,” he said.

*Hon. Joseph Adegbesan*, Rep for Ijebu North/East/Ogun Waterside, said the road provides critical access to markets, farmlands, and schools. “This is what responsive governance looks like.”

*Oba Rashid Ladoja, Olubadan of Ibadan*, noted that the road’s poor state had enabled banditry and kidnapping. “With this reconstruction, we expect improved security and stronger ties between Ibadan and Ijebu people.”

Oba Rasak Adenugba, Ebumawe of Ago-Iwoye, added that the project would revive commercial activities and connectivity across communities that have suffered for years.

Hon. Akin Alabi, Chairman House Committee on Works, assured full community cooperation for timely delivery.

Umahi revealed that Oyo State currently has *17 of the 47 federal road projects* in the South-West. He also listed:  

- *Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway*: 82km passing through Ogun and Ondo  

- *Badagry–Sokoto Road*: 1,068km, with 258km already dualised  

- *Oyo–Ogbomoso Road*: 56km, 80% completed  

- *Oyo–Ibadan Road*: 34km, resuscitated after years of abandonment  

For decades, commuters and traders on the Ibadan–Ijebu-Ode and Abeokuta–Ibadan routes have battled potholes, gridlock, and insecurity.  

With these approvals, the Federal Government is betting that better roads will mean better markets, better security, and a better South-West.

As President Tinubu put it: “The real value of this road will be measured by its impact on Nigerians — from farm to market, from classroom to hospital, from one city to another.”

Reported by: 

*Oracle of Peace* 🕊️  

August 24, 2026