Obasanjo commends Makinde for Ibadan development projects, highlighting improved transportation, urban planning, and residents’ comfort across Oyo State.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has lauded Governor Seyi Makinde for his exceptional work in transforming Ibadan through strategic urban planning and major infrastructure initiatives.
He noted that Ibadan development projects under Makinde are making the city more liveable, improving transportation, and enhancing the quality of life for residents across Oyo State.
Obasanjo spoke at the commissioning of the Ibadan Central Bus Terminal at Iwo Road, describing the facility as a significant milestone in the city’s development.
The terminal features two modern mega stations with waiting halls, ticketing areas, eateries, elevators, escalators, open parking spaces, a water reservoir, and a power generating house—facilities designed to meet international standards and ensure convenience for commuters.
During the event, Obasanjo praised the governor for prioritizing people-centered projects that benefit both the residents of Ibadan and the entire Oyo State.
“Governor Makinde, you are making Ibadan liveable and comfortable for everyone,” Obasanjo said.
He stressed that Ibadan, the third-largest city in Nigeria by population and the largest by land area, requires efficient transportation to make daily commuting manageable.
The former president highlighted that the bus terminals located in Iwo Road, Challenge, and Ojoo will significantly ease mobility challenges within the city.
“Traveling from one point to another in Ibadan can take longer than in Lagos or Kano,” he said.
“These terminals are a practical solution that will make life easier for residents.”
Obasanjo added that Ibadan’s growth and development are important not only for Oyo State but for the entire South-West region, given its historical significance as the capital of the old Western Region.
Obasanjo also praised Makinde’s integrity, describing him as an “Omoluabi” and a leader who combines professional engineering expertise with political acumen.
He advised the governor to remain focused despite criticism, reminding him that public figures often face temporary opposition that eventually turns to appreciation.
Governor Makinde, in his remarks, stated that the Ibadan Central Bus Terminal is part of a broader initiative to enhance urban mobility and infrastructure across the city.
His administration has built four modern bus terminals at Iwo Road, Challenge, Ojoo, and New Ife Road to alleviate commuting challenges commonly experienced in large urban areas.
“The completion of this terminal demonstrates our commitment to transforming Oyo State into a modern, efficient, and organized city,” Makinde said.
“Our projects are focused on results, not politics. Development must benefit everyone, and that is our priority.”
Makinde also mentioned the ongoing dualization of the Iwo Road–Adegbayi carriageway, designed to ease congestion along the busy route.
Plans have also been submitted to the Federal Government to extend the project to Asejire, at the Oyo-Osun State boundary, ensuring long-term benefits for residents.
Circular Road: The City’s Future Economic Corridor
Addressing public concerns about the 110-kilometre Senator Rashidi Ladoja Circular Road project, Makinde explained that the project is not just a highway but a critical economic backbone for Oyo State.
“This is more than a road project; it is a corridor of opportunity where industries, estates, and logistics hubs can thrive to support Ibadan’s growth for the next 20 years,” he said.
The governor emphasized that the land reserved along the Circular Road is a strategic investment for the city’s future.
“Cities that fail to plan for tomorrow are swallowed by today’s chaos. This corridor ensures that Ibadan grows sustainably while creating economic opportunities for future generations,” Makinde added.
The Ibadan development projects under Makinde have already begun transforming the city.
Modern bus terminals improve public transportation, dual carriageways ease traffic congestion, and long-term planning along the Circular Road encourages industrial and residential growth.
Obasanjo also highlighted the wider impact of Makinde’s initiatives, noting that development in Ibadan benefits the South-West region as a whole.
“Ibadan is a central city in Yorubaland; what happens here resonates across neighboring states,” he said.
Makinde reiterated that the government’s projects are not just for current residents but also for future generations.
“Our goal is to ensure that Ibadan develops in a structured, sustainable way, providing opportunities for businesses, investors, and communities alike,” he said.
Both Obasanjo and Makinde emphasized the importance of residents taking responsibility for maintaining the new facilities. The governor encouraged citizens to use the bus terminals responsibly and ensure that public infrastructure is preserved for the benefit of everyone.
The administration also plans continued engagement with property owners, the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), and community leaders (Mogajis) regarding the Circular Road to address any concerns, further reinforcing the people-focused approach of the projects.
The Ibadan development projects under Makinde are reshaping the city, improving transportation, creating economic opportunities, and enhancing the quality of life for residents.
With modern bus terminals, dual carriageways, and strategic urban planning along the Circular Road, Ibadan is becoming a more organized, efficient, and liveable city.
Former President Obasanjo’s commendation underscores the significance of these initiatives, highlighting that Ibadan’s transformation under Governor Makinde is setting a new benchmark for urban development in Nigeria.
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