President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the rehabilitation of the Ilesa-Ife-Ibadan dual carriageway, a key expressway in southwestern Nigeria. The announcement was made during the coronation ceremony of the 41st Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Oba Adesuyi Clement Haastrup, Ajimoko III, held in Ilesa on Friday.
Representing the President at the event, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Adegboyega Oyetola said the road project reflects Tinubu’s commitment to grassroots development and aligns with his Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on infrastructure, education, healthcare, and agriculture.
“The rehabilitation of the Ilesa-Ife-Ibadan road is not just about roadworks,” Oyetola said. “It’s about connecting people, promoting trade, and enhancing the quality of life across Osun and its neighboring states.”
Oyetola praised Ijesaland for its historical contributions to national development and assured that the Tinubu administration would continue to partner with traditional institutions to ensure inclusive growth.
Also speaking at the event, Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke said his administration is working hard to improve infrastructure and boost education in the state. He announced that the newly upgraded University of Ilesa now runs over 50 accredited courses and that the Ilesa General Hospital has been approved as the university’s teaching hospital.
“We are positioning Ilesa as a hub for education and medical excellence,” Adeleke said. He also highlighted the near-completion of the Ereja Square to Brewery Junction dual carriageway, describing it as a landmark project that will open up Ilesa for business and tourism.
Oba Adesuyi Haastrup, the newly crowned Owa Obokun, thanked dignitaries and residents for their support, expressing joy at the turnout and pledging to promote unity and progress across Ijesaland.
The coronation was attended by top personalities including former President Olusegun Obasanjo, former Vice Presidents Atiku Abubakar and Namadi Sambo, and former Osun State Governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola. Traditional rulers present included the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi; the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Laoye Ghandi; the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed Akanbi; and the Aare Onakakanfo of Yorubaland, Gani Adams.
The Ilesa-Ife-Ibadan expressway is a critical transportation corridor linking major cities in Osun, Oyo, and beyond. Its rehabilitation is expected to reduce travel time, enhance the movement of goods and services, and stimulate local economies across the region.
Residents and road users have long awaited the repair of the road, which has suffered years of neglect. The federal approval, combined with Osun State’s urban renewal efforts, signals renewed hope for development and regional integration in the southwest.
