We’ll continue to build viable road in Ondo — Aiyedatiwa

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State on Wednesday pledged that his administration would continue to build viable road networks for the benefit of the people of Ondo State.

Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the 11.9km Molege-Agunbiade road in Owo East Local Council Development Authority (LCDA), Aiyedatiwa said his government embarked on the project due to its strategic position and economic benefits to both the people and the state.

Aiyedatiwa, represented by his deputy, Dr. Olayide Adelami, noted that the project is a well-planned initiative aimed at improving access to farmlands and enhancing food security in the state.

He disclosed that the current administration is planning to build about nine agro-logistics centers across the three senatorial districts of the state, adding that one such center will be located in Owo East LCDA.

He said, “Our administration is fully committed to repositioning rural communities and empowering rural dwellers to contribute significantly to food production by constructing rural roads and establishing nine agro-logistics centers across the three senatorial districts of the state.”

He urged the contractor to ensure strict compliance with international standards and to deliver the project on schedule, while calling on the host community to take ownership of the project.

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It is worth recalling that the governor had previously flagged off the construction of the 15.5km Oda Cocoa Board–Camp II–Langbodo Road in Oda Town, Akure South Local Government, and the 10.9km Idanre-Obajare road in Idanre Local Government, both under the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP).

The State Director General of RAAMP, Engr Adeniyi Adelabu, stated that Ondo State has been at the forefront of the governor’s agenda to promote local food production.

“Our government’s decision to be one of the participating states in RAAMP stems from Mr. Governor’s interest in addressing the challenges of accessing rural areas within the state,” Adelabu said.

He further disclosed that the governor has signed into law bills establishing the Rural Access and Roads Authority (RARA) and the State Roads Fund (SRF), hinting that the boards for these new agencies will soon be constituted to continue rural road development across the state.

Chief Omotayo Akinrogbe, speaking on behalf of the community, commended the governor, noting that the road, when completed, will help farmers transport their produce to markets, reducing transportation costs and positively impacting food prices.

He assured the construction team and the state government of the community’s full support to ensure the successful execution of the project.

Owo East LCDA Transition Chairman, Olatubosun Aganun, cited the governor’s people-oriented programs and projects across the state as a reason why the All Progressives Congress (APC) will win the November 16 governorship election.

He assured the governor that the APC would secure an overwhelming victory in Owo, saying the people of the state have found him to be a trustworthy and capable leader.