Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s administration in Ekiti State has abolished the use of laterite base for construction of roads in the State.
The State Commissioner for Works, Mr. Adesola Adebayo who made this known in Ikole Ekiti during a 2-day media tour of major projects executed since the inception of Governor Biodun Oyebanji in October 16, 2022, said contractors handling road projects in the State have been directed to use crushed stones as base before laying asphalt to ensure that the roads are durable.
According to him, the base is the foundation for a long-lasting road, adding that it is critical to pick the right base material to guarantee value for money spent.
He warned that the State would not accept substandard jobs from any contractor, stressing that all projects would be seriously monitored to ensure compliance with the contract terms.
Reiterating the commitment of the State Government to the well-being and prosperity of residents of the State, Adebayo said that the massive road projects embarked upon by the administration are designed to ease traffic congestion and boost economic activities in the State.
He listed 19 roads currently undergoing construction, reconstruction or rehabilitation in the State to include the Ilawe-Ikere road, Igbara Odo-Ikere road, Iloro-Ijurin road, Temidire- Ayegunle road, Ipoti-Ilukuno-Oke Oro road, Itapa-Ijelu road, Isinbode-Ara-Ikole road, Ado-Iworoko-Ifaki, the new Ado ring road and the Ikogosi/Igbara-Odo road.
Others consist of Ado Township roads including Faglo-Dehead road and the new Ajilosun to Okeyinmi Flyover bridge.
In his remarks, the Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun explained that the media tour was organized to keep the media and the people well-informed of Government’s activities in line with Governor Oyebanji’s inclusive policy.
Rt. Hon. Olatunbosun described the tour as a reflection of the administration’s commitment to the principles of transparency and accountability adding that it was an invitation to scrutiny and independent review of Government’s activities.
Olatunbosun stressed that “a remarkable number of achievements have been recorded since the advent of the present administration over 22months ago under the able leadership of Governor Oyebanji.
“This developmental strides achieved under the Six Developmental Pillars which have made tremendous impact on both the landscape of the State and the mindset of the people include the improved road network, infrastructural development, renovation of schools and institution, health facilities, revolutionalising and mechanizing Agriculture as well as turn the State to an Industrial hub with strong prospect for Micro, small and medium enterprises”.
He added that the warm reception accorded the tour team in all locations visited is a symbol of the appreciation of the people for efforts of Government to rapidly develop every nook and cranny of the State and improve their lot.
He promised to continue to pursue a robust partnership with the media for the overall interest of the people, adding that the state government would leave no stone unturned towards ensuring that the people were adequately informed about its policies and programmes.
The tour comprised of members of the State Executive Council, the Chairman of the State Council of the Nigeria union of Journalists, Mr. Kayode Babatuyi, General Managers of Radio and Television Stations in the State, editors of some major National newspapers as well as State correspondents of print, electronics and New Media.
Projects sites visited by the tour group on the first day included the Ekiti State SUBEB Smart School, Ijan Ekiti; General Hospital, Ijan Ekiti; Isinbode/Ara/Ikole Road; Itapa/Ijelu Road; the 100bedspace capacity hostel under construction at the Command Secondary School, Isan Ekiti; Ipoti/Ilukuno/Oke Oro Road and the School of Special Needs at Ido Ekiti amongst others.
Packaged by Mayowa Owogbade
