Ekiti govt abolishes laterite base for road construction

The Ekiti State Government has abolished the use of laterite as a base for road construction by contractors in the state.

The Commissioner for Works, Adesola Adebayo, announced this over the weekend during a two-day media tour of major projects executed since Governor Biodun Oyebanji took office on October 16, 2022. He stated that contractors handling road projects in the state have been directed to use crushed stones as the base before laying asphalt to ensure durability.

According to him, the base serves as the foundation for a long-lasting road, emphasizing the importance of selecting the right base material to guarantee value for the money spent.

He warned that the state would not tolerate substandard work from any contractor, stressing that all projects would be closely monitored to ensure compliance with contract terms.

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Reiterating the State Government’s commitment to the well-being and prosperity of its residents, Adebayo explained that the massive road projects undertaken by the administration are designed to ease traffic congestion and boost economic activities in the state.

He listed 19 roads currently under construction, reconstruction, or rehabilitation in the state, including the Ilawe-Ikere Road, Igbara Odo-Ikere Road, Iloro-Ijurin Road, Temidire-Ayegunle Road, Ipoti-Ilukuno-Oke Oro Road, Itapa-Ijelu Road, Isinbode-Ara-Ikole Road, Ado-Iworoko-Ifaki Road, the new Ado Ring Road, and the Ikogosi/Igbara-Odo Road.

Other projects include Ado Township roads, such as the Faglo-Dehead Road and the new Ajilosun to Okeyinmi Flyover bridge.

In his remarks, the Commissioner for Information, Taiwo Olatunbosun, explained that the media tour was organized to keep both the media and the public informed about the government’s activities, in line with Governor Oyebanji’s inclusive policy.

Olatunbosun described the tour as a reflection of the administration’s commitment to transparency and accountability, adding that it was an invitation for scrutiny and independent review of the government’s actions.

He emphasized that “a remarkable number of achievements have been recorded since the current administration began 22 months ago under Governor Oyebanji’s leadership.”

He continued, “These developmental strides, achieved under the Six Developmental Pillars, have significantly impacted both the landscape of the state and the mindset of its people. These include improvements in road networks, infrastructural development, renovation of schools and institutions, healthcare facilities, and the mechanization of agriculture, all while transforming the state into an industrial hub with strong prospects for micro, small, and medium enterprises.”

Olatunbosun added, “We believe this will inspire confidence when we address issues concerning development, fiscal matters, appropriations, and other governance activities in Ekiti State.”

“We are showing you where we are investing taxpayers’ money, particularly in the quality and choice of projects that have made a meaningful impact on the lives of the people.”

“In addition to revolutionizing mechanized agricultural development, we are working to network Ekiti and turn it into a center of industrial development, making it a destination of choice for investors.”

He further noted that the warm reception received by the tour team in all locations visited is a symbol of the people’s appreciation for the government’s efforts to rapidly develop the state and improve their living conditions.

He promised to continue fostering a strong partnership with the media for the benefit of the people, adding that the state government will leave no stone unturned in ensuring that the public is adequately informed about its policies and programs.

Project sites visited by the tour group on the first day included the Ekiti State SUBEB Smart School, Ijan Ekiti; ⁠General Hospital, Ijan Ekiti; ⁠Isinbode/Ara/Ikole Road; ⁠Itapa/Ijelu Road; the 100-bed capacity hostel under construction at ⁠Command Secondary School, Isan Ekiti; ⁠Ipoti/Ilukuno/Oke Oro Road; and the ⁠School of Special Needs at Ido Ekiti, among others.