By Duchess Ifeoluwa

Vice President Kashim Shettima on Monday commissioned the Onyearugbulem–Shagari/Irese Road Flyover and Junction Improvement Project in Akure, describing the project as a major infrastructure intervention capable of boosting industrial growth, easing traffic congestion and improving economic activities in Ondo State.

The flyover, regarded as the first of its kind in the Ondo State capital, was inaugurated at a ceremony held along the Ilesha–Akure–Owo Expressway, with Vice President Shettima commending the state government for embarking on what he termed a strategic and timely project.

According to him, the infrastructure would improve traffic circulation, enhance safety and strengthen commercial activities along one of the busiest corridors in the South-West.

Shettima noted that infrastructure development remains central to sustainable economic growth and regional integration, adding that projects of such magnitude would contribute significantly to national productivity.

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, who hosted the event alongside Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, described the flyover as a landmark achievement in the history of the state capital.

Aiyedatiwa said the project was conceived to permanently address the persistent traffic congestion and frequent accidents that had characterised the Onyearugbulem–Shagari and Akure–Benin Expressway intersection for years.

He explained that the junction had remained a major flashpoint for road crashes, gridlock and delays that negatively affected economic activities and movement within the metropolis and beyond.

The governor recalled that the project was initiated under the administration of the late former governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, and sustained by his administration in line with its commitment to continuity in governance.

In a symbolic gesture, Aiyedatiwa announced the naming of the flyover after the leader of Afenifere, Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, who turned 100 on Monday.

The governor stated that the project goes beyond physical infrastructure, describing it as part of a broader vision to stimulate economic growth, attract investment and improve the quality of life for residents.

He highlighted several ongoing road infrastructure projects across the state, including the dualisation of the Akure–Idanre Road, Akungba–Ikare Road, Okitipupa–Igbokoda Road and College Road in Igbokoda.

Aiyedatiwa also disclosed that over 100 kilometres of roads across the three senatorial districts had undergone rehabilitation and asphalt overlay, including the Akure–Ijare Road, Akure–Imafon Road, Aiyegunle–Oka Road and Igbotako Road.

According to him, while some of the projects have already been completed and commissioned, others are at advanced stages of execution.

He described the Reuben Fasoranti Flyover as one of the flagship projects of his administration, noting that it has already improved traffic flow, reduced travel time and enhanced safety along the busy corridor.

The governor commended the contractors, engineers and consultants involved in the project, particularly indigenous professionals whose expertise, he said, contributed significantly to the successful delivery of the flyover.

He also appreciated residents of Akure for their patience and cooperation throughout the construction period, assuring that the infrastructure would serve the state for generations.

The commissioning ceremony was attended by members of the Ondo State Executive Council, traditional rulers, security chiefs and other dignitaries.