The Federal Government has formally flagged off dualisation of the strategic Ibadan–Ijebu Ode Road in Oyo State.
Senior Special Assistant to the Minister of Works on Media, Francis Nwaze disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony on August 24, 2026, the Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi said the project marked a decisive shift from temporary fixes to the delivery of durable infrastructure under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu.
The Minister described the Ibadan–Ijebu Ode project as more than an ordinary road construction project, stressing that its strategic importance goes beyond asphalt and concrete.
According to Umahi, the dualisation will open up new economic opportunities across the Lagos-Ogun-Oyo axis, while making movement easier, reducing travel time and addressing security challenges that have been associated with the deteriorated sections of the road.
“By expanding this corridor, we are unlocking the massive agricultural and commercial potential of the Lagos-Ogun-Oyo axis, reducing travel times drastically, and eliminating security vulnerabilities like kidnapping that thrived on dilapidated sections.”
The 56.5-kilometre dualisation project, approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) and awarded to JRB Construction Limited, is expected to strengthen one of the major transportation and economic links between Oyo and Ogun states.
Umahi said the project was one of the clear indications of President Tinubu’s commitment to transforming the country’s infrastructure landscape, particularly through the construction of durable roads capable of supporting growing economic activities.
He also praised JRB Construction Limited for its work on the corridor, describing the company as the best indigenous contractor and drawing attention to the scale of the ongoing earthworks. “I can tell you that JRB contractors are the best indigenous contractors. Go and see the work they are already doing. They are filling up to 40 feet along this road.”
Representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, at the ceremony, Ogun State Governor, His Excellency Prince Dapo Abiodun, described the project as an important economic connection between the two neighbouring states. “Today demonstrates the flag-off of the 56.5km Ibadan-Ijebu-Ode road. It is more than just a flag-off; it is a vital connection between two sister states economically.”
The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Imperial Majesty Oba Rashidi Ladoja, also welcomed the project, recalling the hardship experienced by farmers and traders who had depended on the road over the years.
The monarch also commended Umahi for his role in advancing the infrastructure agenda of the Tinubu administration. “Senator Umahi has proven himself to be an indefatigable champion of infrastructure, and he has the full backing of our traditional institution”, he said.
