After decades of disrepair, the Ilesa/Ife/Ibadan expressway is finally set for rehabilitation, following President Bola Tinubu’s approval on Friday.
The President made this announcement while speaking at the coronation of Oba Adesuyi Clement Haastrup, the 41st Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, where he underscored his administration’s unwavering commitment to supporting the dreams and needs of all communities, including Ijesaland.
Tinubu said: ‘‘In line with ongoing federal initiatives in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and agriculture, we are working to uplift lives and expand opportunities across the nation.
“We recognise the resourcefulness of this land and will continue to partner with traditional institutions to ensure that development is inclusive and enduring.”
Represented by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, the president congratulated Oba Haastrup, expressing confidence that the Oba’s reign would not only preserve but also elevate the cultural splendor of Ijesaland.
Oyetola reaffirmed President Tinubu’s administration’s dedication to grassroots development as part of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
He announced that the president has ordered an intervention fund for rehabilitating the Ilesa-Ife-Ibadan expressway, a critical artery for the economic vitality of Osun and its neighboring states.
In his address, Gov. Ademola Adeleke characterized the new Owa as a gentleman known for his loyalty and patriotism.
“As the Deputy Governor to my late brother, the first Executive Governor of Osun State, late Senator Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke, our new Owa Adimula demonstrated absolute loyalty and supportive backing.
“As a businessman, he climbed to the top of the ladder in his sector, making him one of the most successful business executives in Nigeria,” he said.
He restated his commitment towards the overall development of Ijesaland as he disclosed that the University of Ilesa is now offering over 50 courses which are accredited.
“I am glad to announce that the General Hospital, Ilesa has been approved as the Teaching Hospital for the University of Ilesa. This will boost Ilesa as a centre of medical excellence.
“We are focused on the upgrading of Ilesa to a modern city. Hence, we are almost completing the over 12 kilometers Ereja Square-Brewery Junction dual carriageway. This landmark project for the first time is opening up Ilesa for business and pleasure,” the governor was quoted as saying.
Oba Haastrup expressed gratitude to President Tinubu, governor Adeleke, other dignitaries and the people who graced the occasion.
“You all sacrificed for me to be here today, I am so glad and elated to witness today,” he told the gathering.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, former Vice-President, Atiku Abubakar, former Vice-President Namadi Sambo, one-time Osun Governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola, Osun East Senator Francis Fadahunsi and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi were among the dignitaries at the event.
Others are the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Laoye Ghandi, Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed Akanbi, Owaloko of Iloko-Ijesa, Oba Akeem Ogungbangbe, and the Aare Onakakanfo, Gani Adams.
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