Aiyedatiwa Launches Fresh Road Expansion Drive as Akure–Imafon Project Takes Off
By Exponent News Akure, 14th November,2025
The push for widespread infrastructure renewal in Ondo State gained fresh momentum on Thursday as Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa formally flagged off the construction of the Akure–Imafon Road, signalling what he described as a decisive step toward fulfilling long-standing developmental promises.
Speaking at the NNPC–Imafon Junction on Igbatoro Road in Akure, the Governor said the project directly responds to persistent demands from residents of the area who have endured years of poor road conditions. He noted that the flag-off demonstrates his administration’s readiness to convert campaign assurances into tangible outcomes.
Governor Aiyedatiwa applauded traditional rulers, spiritual leaders, community groups, youth organisations and landlords along the Akure–Imafon corridor for their resilience and previous self-help efforts to maintain the route.
“Your patience and perseverance have finally paid off. Government has taken over that burden and your loyalty and sacrifice have not gone unrewarded,” he stated.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to infrastructure expansion, the Governor projected that the ongoing pace of development would help bridge more than half of the state’s infrastructure deficit before the end of his tenure—an effort he said aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Transformation Agenda.
He emphasised that infrastructure development, alongside human capital growth, remains central to the “OUR EASE” policy thrust of his administration. According to him, efficient road networks are critical to driving commerce, improving mobility and facilitating economic growth.
The Governor revealed that the State Executive Council had recently approved the construction and rehabilitation of 101 kilometres of roads across the state’s three senatorial districts. He assured residents of Akure North—including those from Igbatoro, Ala and Imafon—of timely project delivery, especially before the dry season ends, and noted that adjoining inner roads would also receive attention.
Aiyedatiwa further pledged that no inherited project would be abandoned. He assured that work would soon resume on the ongoing dualisation of Ijoka Road, along with other key projects across the state.
In his address, the Commissioner for Infrastructure, Lands and Housing, Engr. Ayorinde Abiola Olawoye, thanked the Governor for prioritising infrastructure. He explained that the Akure–Imafon Road spans six kilometres with an average width of 10.3 metres, incorporating essential hydraulic and structural components. He added that another 5.3-kilometre stretch, extending from Investment Structure to ShortRite Roundabout and ending at the Federal Secretariat, had also been awarded, with an average width of 60 metres.
Olawoye clarified concerns about ongoing overlays on multiple roads, noting that previous wearing courses had deteriorated due to exposure of the binder layer to harsh weather, resulting in recurring potholes.
Chairman of Akure North Local Government, Johnson Ogunbolude, commended the Governor’s performance, reiterating the area’s support for his administration.
Also speaking, the Olumafon of Imafon, Oba Aliu Adegbehingbe, described the project as a symbol of renewed hope and economic opportunity. He recalled that Governor Aiyedatiwa, during a late-night visit to Imafon last year, had pledged to fix the road. “It’s not up to a year now, and they have done a wonderful job,” he said gratefully.
Dignitaries present included Deputy Governor Dr. Olayide Adelami; Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti; Commissioner for Agriculture and Forestry, Engr. Leye Akinola; Commissioner for Finance, Mrs. Omowumi Isaac; Commissioner for Water Resources and Public Hygiene, Hon. Ayo Akande; Chairman of Akure South Local Government, Dr. Gbenga Fasua; and Senior Special Assistant to the Governor, Hon. Tayo Abidakun.
