Nigerians can expect a significant improvement in their travel experience as the Federal Ministry of Works has announced that the Akure-Ikere road dualisation project is set to be completed and inaugurated by President Bola Tinubu in December. This development is a major milestone in the country’s infrastructure development, aimed at enhancing road safety and reducing travel time.
According to Engr Olajide Hussein, the Federal Controller of Works in Ondo State, the 15-kilometer Phase 1 of the Akure-Ita Ogbolu-Iju-Ikere road dualisation will be ready for inauguration by the President in December. The project’s first phase, which costs N19 billion, is part of a larger effort to dualise the road, with the second phase expected to cost N23 billion. Hussein explained that the ministry’s policy is to execute projects in phases, ensuring that road users have uninterrupted access to one lane while construction work begins on the second lane.
Hussein praised the Minister of Works, Engr Dave Umahi, for his resilience in delivering the project on schedule. He noted that the project’s first phase covers a 15-kilometer single carriageway from Akure to the Ekiti State border, with some gaps in between. Although the project’s initial phase does not cover the entire 18.438-kilometer stretch, Hussein expressed confidence that the contractor will complete the remaining work by December, enabling President Tinubu to inaugurate the project.
The ministry’s approach to constructing one lane at a time is designed to address traffic congestion before proceeding to the other carriageway. Hussein highlighted that this strategy allows for smooth, unbroken traffic flow between Akure and Ikere before work begins on the second lane. He also commended the quality of work done by the contractor, citing the only challenge faced during construction as obstructions caused by temporary and permanent structures.
However, Hussein appreciated the cooperation of affected property owners, who removed their structures in collaboration with state governments, facilitating the project’s progress. With the project’s completion nearing, Nigerians can look forward to improved road safety, reduced travel times, and enhanced connectivity between Akure and Ikere. The inauguration of the Akure-Ikere road dualisation project in December is a significant step towards achieving the country’s infrastructure development goals, and it is expected to have a positive impact on the region’s economic and social growth.
