Construction of Ibadan circular road commences

Governor Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State has flagged off the first phase of the Ibadan Circular Road project which would be completed in 18 months.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the entire stretch of the ICR was put at 110km with the first phase known as `North East’ section measuring 32.2km.

The ICR project is segmented into four sections–North East measuring 32.2km, North West- 33km; South West- 24km and South East- 20.8km.

Ajimobi said that the North-East section, which was flagged off, runs from Badeku in Inukan Local Council Development Area (LCDA) to the Ibadan-Lagos express way via Ajanla Farms.

He stated that the road project would be executed on a Build Operate and Transfer (BOT) agreement signed with ENL Consortium Limited.

The governor stated that the first phase would be completed at an estimated cost of N70 billion.

“The first phase of the project has several other facilities to be included for execution, among which are three security posts, two filling stations, street light and other road furniture.

“This project demonstrates our government’s unrelenting effort at building up the critical infrastructure required to modernize our capital and our major cities, likewise to create a conducive atmosphere for people to thrive,’’ he said.

Ajimobi noted that the importance of transportation as a means of exchange and transfer of value could not be overemphasized.

“Over the last six years, we have committed a lot of our thoughts, time and resources to the design and construction of road network in the state and adjoining neighbouring cities.

“This circular road was originally thought of by the administration of our leader, late Alhaji Lam Adesina. Unfortunately, successive governments after him neglected the project,’’ he said.

He said that the project would open up development corridors, ease traffic congestion and place the state at par with International modern cities.

In his address, Mr. Wasiu Dauda, the State Commissioner for Works and Transport said that project was a product of long-term careful planning, design and consultations.

Dauda said that it was conceived as a bye pass to divert traffic away from the metropolis and reduce congestion within the city, travel time and operating cost of vehicles.

“The work to execute on the road includes clearing, earthworks, provision of hydraulic structures including lined drains, culverts, three bridges and two interchanges/flyovers.

“The road will have pavement made of lateritic sub base 200mm, crushed stone base material, 60mm binder and 40mm asphaltic concrete wearing course,’’ he said.

Chief Adesuyi Haastrup, the Chairman, ENL Consortium Limited, stated that the project was a dream come true for the people of the state.

Haastrup, a former Deputy Governor of Osun, said Ajimobi was leaving a worthy legacy that would continue to earn him commendation after the end of his tenure.

Oba Saliu Adetunji, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Sunday Oladapo, Onpetu of Ijeruland, Oba Samuel Adegbola, Eleruwa of Eruwa, and Oba Rafiu Osuolale, the Onjo of Okeho, all commended the governor for the project.

NAN reports that in attendance were Chief Moses Adeyemo, the Deputy Governor, Hon. Michael Adeyemo, the Speaker of Oyo State House Assembly and Mrs. Florence Ajimobi, the wife of the governor.

Others present were retired Brig. Gen. Raji Rasaki, a former Military Governor of Lagos and Ogun as well as members of the State Executive Council. (NAN)