The Oyo State Government has allocated more than N15 billion for the rehabilitation of roads in Ibadan, mainly the Bodija, Molete, and Agodi highways.

Prof. Daud Sangodoyin, the Commissioner for Public Works and Transportation, made this announcement after the 12th State Executive Council meeting in Ibadan on Wednesday.

Information on the recently approved road projects was given by Prof. Sangodoyin. He emphasized how important rehabilitation of roads in Ibadan is for the government, both in residential and commercial areas.

Road Approvals During the Council Meeting

At a cost of N5.6 billion, the Council approved a project to improve the asphalt of 7.12 kilometers of road in the Old and New Bodija Estates.

Professor Sangodoyin clarified that the choice of rehabilitation of roads in Ibadan is consistent with Governor Seyi Makinde’s resolve to upgrade the region’s infrastructure, following the local explosion on January 17.

Another networthy project includes the N5.9 billion asphaltic upgrade of the 5.2-kilometer road along the Molete Underbridge, Felele, Challenge, and Onigaari expressway.

Along with external roadways, the Council authorized a N3.7 billion proposal to build new parking lots and repair the state secretariat complex’s internal road system in Agodi.

“The rehabilitation of the road network within the state secretariat at Agodi in Ibadan with befitting car parks at a cost of N3.7 billion was among the road projects approved by the Council,” Sangodoyin said.

All projects are scheduled for completion within eight months, ensuring timely delivery to enhance the quality of life for residents and travelers.

Earlier Approach of the Government for Infrastructural Development

In order to fund the ongoing Rashidi Ladoja circular road project in Ibadan, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde requested permission from the State House of Assembly in January 2024 for a N150 billion loan from Afrexim Bank and Access Bank.

The governor added that the loan would expedite the construction of the circular road project and assist alleviate traffic congestion in the city of Ibadan during the first plenary session of 2024, which was attended by 20 lawmakers.

After protracted discussions, the Federal Government was unable to agree with Julius Berger Plc over their N258 billion proposal. Thus it has opted to reopen the bidding process for the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway Phase 2 project.

The project was initially estimated by the government to cost N153 billion, and Julius Berger’s bid was rejected due to the significant cost discrepancy.

Julius Berger’s proposal and the ministry’s updated estimate will both be included in the new bids that the government intends to invite. The bidding process is anticipated to be completed within the next month.