President Bola Tinubu Approves Rehabilitation of Ilesa/Ife/Ibadan Dual Carriageway to Enhance Transportation
President Bola Tinubu officially approved the rehabilitation of the Ilesa/Ife/Ibadan dual carriage expressways on Friday, to improve transportation efficiency and connectivity in the region.
Speaking at the coronation ceremony of the 41st Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Oba Adesuyi Clement Haastrup, Ajimoko III, President Tinubu emphasized his administration’s unwavering commitment to supporting the development aspirations of local communities, including Ijesaland.
He stated, “Aligned with our ongoing federal initiatives spanning infrastructure, education, healthcare, and agriculture, we remain dedicated to improving lives and broadening opportunities nationwide. We recognize the immense potential of this land and pledge to continue collaborating with traditional institutions to ensure inclusive and sustainable development.”
Represented by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, the president extended his heartfelt congratulations to Oba Haastrup, expressing confidence that under his leadership, the rich cultural heritage of Ijesaland will not only be preserved but also elevated to greater prominence.
As part of the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Minister Oyetola reaffirmed President Tinubu’s commitment to grassroots development. He announced the release of an intervention fund specifically allocated for the rehabilitation of the crucial Ilesa-Ife-Ibadan expressway, a key artery vital to the economic growth of Osun State and its neighboring regions.
In his address, Governor Ademola Adeleke described the newly crowned Owa as a man distinguished by loyalty and patriotism. He recalled, “During his tenure as Deputy Governor to my late brother, Senator Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke—the first Executive Governor of Osun State—our new Owa Adimula exhibited unwavering loyalty and steadfast support. As a successful businessman, he has risen to the pinnacle of his industry, establishing himself as one of Nigeria’s foremost business executives.”
Governor Adeleke also reaffirmed his dedication to the overall development of Ijesaland, highlighting key educational and infrastructural advancements. He disclosed that the University of Ilesa now offers over 50 fully accredited courses and proudly announced that the General Hospital in Ilesa has been approved as the university’s official teaching hospital—an initiative set to position Ilesa as a burgeoning center for medical excellence.
“We are committed to transforming Ilesa into a modern city,” the governor said. “Significant progress has been made on the Ereja Square-Brewery Junction dual carriageway, spanning over 12 kilometers. This landmark project is opening up Ilesa for both business and leisure activities for the first time.”
In his remarks, Oba Haastrup expressed deep gratitude to all dignitaries and attendees, saying, “Your sacrifices and support have brought me here today, and I am profoundly honored and joyous to share this moment with you.”
The coronation was attended by prominent figures including former President Olusegun Obasanjo, former Vice Presidents Atiku Abubakar and Namadi Sambo, ex-Osun Governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola, Osun East Senator Francis Fadahunsi, and numerous other dignitaries.
Traditional rulers present included the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi; the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Laoye Ghandi; the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed Akanbi; the Owaloko of Iloko-Ijesa, Oba Akeem Ogungbangbe; and the Aare Onakakanfo, Gani Adams, among others.
Other notable attendees were the Executive Director of Marine and Operations, Engineer Olalekan Badmus, former Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, and several members of the Osun State Government cabinet.