As part of activities marking his 100 days in office, Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, on Monday flagged off the 27.5km dualization of the Igbokoda–Okitipupa road, a transformative infrastructure project designed to boost connectivity and drive economic development across the Southern Senatorial District.
Speaking at the flag off ceremony held at Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area, the Governor reaffirmed his commitment to creating an enabling environment for growth, assuring the people, development partners and investors of the state’s readiness to fulfill all requirements needed to position Ondo State as a premier destination for investment, tourism, and improved quality of life.
Governor Aiyedatiwa said the dualization of the Igbokoda–Okitipupa Township Road is a clear testament to his administration’s commitment to accelerated development and the fulfillment of promises made during the electioneering campaign.
The Governor explained that the dual carriageway, which connects other parts of the state to the coastal region, is crucial to the development of the proposed deep seaport and the economic growth of the area.
He said: "Specifically, this project resonates deeply with the President's profound vision for the accelerated growth of the Marine and Blue Economy across our great country. Ondo State, with its extensive coastline and rich aquatic resources, is perfectly positioned to become a major hub in this burgeoning sector. This dualization is, therefore, not just about improving transportation; it is also about unlocking the immense potential that lies within our maritime corridor.
"You will recall that in the twilight of former President Muhammadu Buhari's Administration, approval for the Ondo Deep Seaport was granted to our dear State. This monumental feat was in recognition of our State's strategic importance in the national quest for accelerated development at the highest levels"
"This Igbokoda - Okitipupa dualization project is, therefore, one of the strategic infrastructure initiatives painstakingly conceived by our Administration to proactively fill the logistical and economic gaps that the development of the Deep Seaport will inevitably present. We are not just reacting to future needs; we are anticipating them and laying the groundwork today."
He highlighted the multi-dimensional benefits of the road, stating that it will positively impact commerce, mobility, and the quality of life in the Southern Senatorial District and the state as a whole.
Earlier in his welcome address, Engr. Abiola Olawoye, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Infrastructure, Lands, and Housing, described the project as 27.5 kilometres in length, with 4 metres of road width, 6 metres setback on both sides, and 3 metres reserved for utility services.
"The road corridor is 28 metres, hydraulic structures of 750 by 750 by 150mm thickness in urban area where we have shoulders in undeveloped area and the total length of the hydraulic structure on the road is about 10,500 metres both sides and we also have walkway at 1.5 metres on both sides and the carriage way of the road is 9.3 meters", he said.
In their goodwill messages, Chairmen of Ilaje and Okitipupa LGAs, Maurice Oripenaye and Andrew Ogunsakin, along with traditional rulers including the Abodi of Ikale, Oba Babatunde Faduyile, and the Amapetu of Mahin Kingdom, Oba Segun Akinyomi, expressed appreciation to the Governor for prioritizing road infrastructure across the district.
Also, the project contractor, Mr. Abdul Gorey, assured the people of commitment to the timely and quality delivery of the project.
The Igbokoda–Okitipupa dualization is one of the signature projects of Governor Aiyedatiwa’s administration, reflecting a governance style anchored on progressive development, accessibility and a better standard of living for the people of Ondo State.
Those present at the event included the Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami, Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Olamide Oladiji, Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti, Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa and the Head of Service, Mr Bayo Philips.
Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan,
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
June 2nd, 2025.
100 DAYS: GOV AIYEDATIWA UNVEILS ONDO'S UPGRADED PHARMA-GRADE DRUGS WAREHOUSE
- Says revamped facility marks a new era in healthcare delivery in Ondo State
The Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has said that health remains a top priority of his administration, and that access to safe, quality, and affordable medicines is a fundamental part of the government’s commitment to building a healthier and stronger State.
The Governor made this commitment on Tuesday, during the official commissioning of the newly upgraded Central Medical Stores to a Pharma-grade Warehouse in Akure, the state capital.
During the event, the Governor described the project as a major leap in strengthening the state’s healthcare delivery system and a bold step toward eliminating counterfeit and substandard drugs from public health facilities.
Governor Aiyedatiwa explained that the upgrade of the Central Medical Stores was the result of a strategic partnership between the Ondo State Government, the Federal Government, and the Global Fund through counterpart funding arrangements.
“It became imperative to upgrade the facility to a Pharma-grade Warehouse that adheres to international best practices for drug storage, thereby protecting the potency, safety, and quality of all health commodities,” he said.
The Governor stressed that one of the most significant health threats in Nigeria and Africa at large is the widespread circulation of counterfeit and substandard drugs. He assured the public that the new warehouse will strengthen quality assurance mechanisms and procurement systems.
“With this facility, we are taking concrete steps to eliminate fake medicines from our supply chain. We have instituted strict procurement policies to ensure that all drugs are sourced exclusively from registered and reputable pharmaceutical manufacturers and importers,” he added.
He stated that the facility would not only ensure optimal storage conditions but would also enhance inventory management, reduce wastage, and guarantee the timely and safe distribution of health commodities to hospitals and clinics across the state.
The Governor also disclosed that the state recently collaborated with the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI) to produce the first edition of the Ondo State Essential Medicines List, a major stride in standardizing healthcare delivery and drug availability.
Earlier in his welcome address, Pharmacist (Dr.) Amos Ayegbusi, Executive Secretary of the Ondo State Drugs and Health Commodities Management Agency (ODHCMA), described the event as a major leap in strengthening the state’s healthcare system.
He expressed deep appreciation to Governor Aiyedatiwa for his unwavering support, particularly the prompt release of counterpart funds that enabled the project’s timely completion.
Representing the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, at the commissioning, Mrs. Celine Onunkwo, Coordinator of the National Product Supply Chain Management Program, described the facility as a critical milestone towards achieving Universal Health Coverage.
She emphasized that the warehouse will serve as the backbone of an integrated, efficient system for storing and distributing essential medicines and public health commodities.
Onunkwo commended Governor Aiyedatiwa for his commitment to healthcare development and called for sustained investment in distribution networks and warehouse maintenance to ensure long-term success.
Meanwhile, the Special Adviser on Health, Professor Simidele Odimayo, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Mr. Adeniran Ikumola, praised Governor Aiyedatiwa for his visionary leadership in advancing the health sector in Ondo State.
He noted that the successful upgrade and commissioning of the Central Medical Store is a reflection of the governor’s dedication to building a resilient and efficient healthcare system, emphasizing that such investments will have lasting impacts on service delivery and access to essential medicines for the people of the state.
In attendance at the event were the Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami, Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti, Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa, traditional rulers, members of the State Executive Council, top government functionaries, among others.
Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan,
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
June 3rd, 2025.
GOV AIYEDATIWA FLAGS OFF DUALIZATION OF AKUNGBA-IKARE ROAD
The Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has flagged off the dualisation of the Akungba-Ikare Road in Akoko, describing the project as a monumental stride toward infrastructural transformation and public safety in the area.
With this development, the Aiyedatiwa administration now has one dualization project ongoing in each of the three senatorial districts of the State (Akure-Idanre in the Central, Igbokoda-Okitipupa in the South and Akungba-Ikare in the North).
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony on Tuesday, beside the main gate of the Adekunle Ajasin University in Akungba-Akoko, Governor Aiyedatiwa declared that the project represents far more than the physical construction of road as it symbolizes a bold statement of purpose and compassion from his administration.
He emphasized that the Akungba-Ikare corridor serves as a lifeline for the Northern Senatorial District and is critical in connecting Ondo State to adjoining federal highways.
The decision to dualise the road, he explained, was based on a comprehensive assessment of the region’s needs in alignment with the national vision of prosperity championed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Governor Aiyedatiwa painted a vivid picture of the daily challenges residents face on the existing narrow and congested road, and the regular occurrence of fatal accidents. He described the road not just as a physical burden but as a “daily challenge that has tested the patience and resilience” of the people.
The Governor said: "This is not just another project being initiated within our 100 days in office; it is a monumental stride in our Administration’s journey, a beacon of progress following closely on the heels of other impactful initiatives.
'This dualization project emerges as a compassionate, strategic imperative. We are not just building infrastructure; we are building resilience and peace of mind for the future of this senatorial district.”
He reaffirmed the administration’s unwavering resolve to use every available legal, political, technological, and institutional tool to transform Ondo State into a prime destination for investment, education, tourism, and quality living.
“To our good people in Akungba, Ikare, and indeed all across Akokoland, I want to specifically reaffirm the steadfast commitment of our government to doing all that is necessary to uplift your standard of living… Your well-being and advancement are at the very core of our mission,” the Governor declared.
He assured residents that the project will be executed with strict oversight through institutional frameworks set up by the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure to ensure full value for every kobo spent.
In his welcome address, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Infrastructure, Lands, and Housing, Engr Abiola Olawoye, expressed deep appreciation to Governor Aiyedatiwa for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to infrastructural development in the state.
He described the Akungba-Ikare road dualization project as a significant milestone in the actualization of the Governor’s “OUR EASE” agenda, which prioritizes urban renewal and ease of transportation.
Providing a technical breakdown of the project, Olawoye explained that the road will span a total length of 6.7 kilometers. It features a 28-meter corridor, including a 3-meter utility lane and a dual carriageway measuring 9.3 meters on each side. Walkways will be constructed on both sides of the road to enhance pedestrian safety.
The project will also include the installation of traffic lights and solar-powered streetlights, ensuring safe and energy-efficient travel. Importantly, the road is being engineered to accommodate the movement of heavy-duty trucks, which is common in the area due to its commercial and academic activities.
In his goodwill message, Senator Olajide Ipinsagba, who represents Ondo North Senatorial District in the upper chamber of the National Assembly, stated that a historic milestone is being recorded in Akoko land with the flag-off of the Ikare-Akungba dual carriageway.
According to him, this marks the first time such a massive infrastructural project is being undertaken in the region. He noted that the road will not only help to drastically reduce the frequent road accidents that have claimed many lives over the years but will also stimulate economic growth by improving the ease of movement for people, goods, and services across Akoko communities.
Also, Hon. Adefarati Gboyega, representing Akoko South East/South West Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives,
commended Governor Aiyedatiwa for initiating such a visionary and impactful project.
He praised the governor for listening to the cries of the people and taking decisive action to address a critical need that has been neglected for decades.
Similarly, the Olubaka of Oka Kingdom, Oba Adebori Adeleye, who spoke on behalf of other traditional rulers in Akoko, also extended appreciation to the Governor. He commended the administration for prioritizing the development needs of the Akoko people and for bringing long-overdue infrastructure to the region.
In his Vote of Thanks, former Deputy Speaker and Chairman of the Ondo State Universal Basic Education Board, Rt. Hon. Victor Olabimtan, said with this project, Governor Aiyedatiwa has written his name in the history books.
Olabimtan commended the governor for making the bold move to dualise the road and end the nightmare that the people in the area have suffered for decades.
Those in attendance at the event included the Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami, Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti, State Chairman of the APC, Engr. Ade Adetimehin, Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice, Dr Olukayode Ajulo, former Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Alhaji Adbulazeez Oluboyo, traditional rulers, top government functionaries, among other dignitaries.
Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan,
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
June 3rd, 2025.
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