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 strategic infrastructure project designed to support the development of the proposed Ondo Deep Seaport and drive economic growth in the Southern Senatorial District.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony in Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area, the Governor emphasized the road’s importance to the state’s maritime future, noting that the project aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s vision for advancing Nigeria’s Marine and Blue Economy sector.
Aiyedatiwa described the dual carriageway as critical to unlocking the economic potential of the region, stating that it is not only about improved transportation but also about laying the foundation for sustainable investment, tourism, and development tied to the deep seaport.
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.”
Engr. Abiola Olawoye, Special Adviser on Infrastructure, provided technical details of the project, which features modern road specifications including walkways, utility corridors, and hydraulic structures.
Local government chairmen, traditional rulers, and stakeholders commended the Governor for his foresight and commitment to infrastructure. Project contractor, Mr. Abdul Gorey, assured the public of quality and timely delivery.
Dignitaries at the event included the Deputy Governor, Dr. Olayide Adelami; Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji; Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti; and other top government officials.
According to the project specifications, the Igbokoda–Okitipupa road spans 27.5 kilometres in length. It features a 4-metre-wide carriageway, with a 6-metre setback on both sides and a 3-metre-wide space reserved for utility services.
The total road corridor measures 28 metres in width. In urban areas, the project includes hydraulic structures measuring 750mm by 750mm with a thickness of 150mm. These structures, with a combined length of approximately 10,500 metres on both sides of the road, are designed to ensure proper drainage, particularly in undeveloped sections where road shoulders are planned.
Additionally, the road includes 1.5-metre-wide walkways on each side, and the total width of the carriageway is 9.3 metres, accommodating efficient vehicular movement and pedestrian access.
