The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, has praised President Bola Tinubu for approving the construction of the Oyo Circular Road, describing the project as a major step towards improving infrastructure and boosting economic activities in the ancient city.
The monarch said the road project would bring long-awaited relief to residents who have endured poor road conditions for decades, while opening up new opportunities for trade, agriculture and investment.
The commendation was contained in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Alaafin’s Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, in Ibadan.
According to the statement, the Federal Government recently approved the award of the contract for the construction of the Oyo Circular Road, which will run from Ijawaya through the Federal Government Girls’ College (FGGC), Sabo and Ilora to Akinmorin in Oyo Federal Constituency.
The project is expected to serve as an important transport link within Oyo metropolis and surrounding communities.
Reacting to the development, the Alaafin expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for responding to the needs of the people of Oyo, saying the approval demonstrates the Federal Government’s commitment to improving infrastructure across the country.
He noted that poor road infrastructure has remained one of the major challenges facing Oyo metropolis, affecting transportation, commercial activities and access to essential services.
According to the traditional ruler, residents have endured years of hardship because of bad roads, making daily movement difficult and increasing the cost of doing business.
He said the new circular road would significantly improve the lives of residents by reducing travel time, easing traffic and creating better connections between communities.
The monarch added that the project would have a positive impact on the local economy by making it easier for farmers and traders to move their goods to markets.
He explained that better roads would reduce delays in transporting farm produce, minimise post-harvest losses caused by spoilage and encourage more investment in agriculture and commerce.
“Farmers and traders will have faster access to major markets, while reducing travel time and crop spoilage and encouraging new business investments,” the statement quoted the Alaafin as saying.
He also highlighted the expected benefits for the healthcare sector, noting that improved roads would make it easier for residents to access hospitals and emergency services.
According to him, pregnant women, elderly people and other vulnerable residents would particularly benefit from faster movement during medical emergencies.
“It will also improve healthcare and emergency access, as residents, particularly pregnant women and the elderly, can now easily access nearby hospitals and emergency services without delays caused by poor road conditions,” he said.
The monarch further stated that the project would improve road safety by providing a smoother and more durable road network.
He said motorists would spend less on vehicle repairs caused by damaged roads, while communities along the route would enjoy better connectivity with neighbouring towns and commercial centres.
According to him, the circular road represents more than just a transportation project, describing it as an investment that would stimulate development and improve the quality of life for thousands of people.
The Alaafin said the project reflects President Tinubu’s commitment to grassroots development and the delivery of democratic dividends.
“This landmark project stands as a testament to your commitment to grassroots development and the dividends of democracy. We see your dedication to the infrastructural transformation of our nation, and we remain fully supportive of your administration’s continued efforts to bring progress to our metropolis,” he said.
He described the road project as being in line with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which seeks to improve infrastructure, create jobs, stimulate economic growth and enhance the welfare of Nigerians.
“A massive thank you to our dear President Tinubu for his outstanding support and investment in our metropolis infrastructure. These landmark projects align perfectly with the Renewed Hope Agenda—creating jobs, connecting producers to markets and uplifting lives,” the monarch added.
The Alaafin also prayed for President Tinubu, asking God to grant him wisdom, good health and success as he continues to lead the country.
“Your Excellency, President Tinubu, the good people of Oyo metropolis send our deepest gratitude for your visionary leadership and unwavering support.
“We pray for continued wisdom, good health and success as you pilot the affairs of our great nation. Thank you once again for listening to our plea and for remembering our metropolis,” he said.
Beyond the President, the traditional ruler also acknowledged the contributions of prominent indigenes of Oyo who, according to him, have continued to support development efforts in the ancient town.
He commended Idris Adegboyega, Wasiu Adebisi and the Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Dr. Zacch Adedeji, for their commitment to the progress of Oyo and their supportive roles in attracting development projects to the area.
Oyo is one of Nigeria’s oldest traditional kingdoms and remains an important cultural and historical centre in the South-West. Over the years, residents have repeatedly appealed to both the state and federal governments for improved road infrastructure to address traffic challenges and stimulate economic growth.
The Federal Government has, in recent years, increased spending on road construction and rehabilitation as part of its infrastructure development strategy. Several highway and bridge projects are ongoing across different parts of the country under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
The approval of the Oyo Circular Road is expected to complement other infrastructure projects in Oyo State by improving mobility within the ancient city and strengthening links with neighbouring communities.
Residents and business owners are optimistic that the project will ease transportation challenges, encourage commercial activities and support the continued growth of Oyo as an important economic and cultural centre.