The Federal Government has finally broken a four-decade-long spell of neglect by flagging off the construction of a ₦12 billion road project in Eti-Oni, Atakumosa East Local Government Area, Osun State.
This long-awaited development has sparked jubilation among the residents, who have endured years of hardship due to poor road infrastructure.
The project, spanning 56 kilometers, will be executed in phases to ensure its timely completion within 12 months.
David Umahi, the Minister of Works, disclosed this during the flag-off ceremony, although he was represented by Oluseyi Adedipe, the Acting Controller of Works in Osun State.
“This road project is part of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu,” Umahi said.
He added that the road will connect economically viable regions and provide a lifeline for communities that rely on farming.
“It will make it easier for farmers to transport their produce to commercial centers, boosting local economies,” Umahi noted.
The residents see this as a major step forward for Eti-Oni, a town famous for its cocoa production.
Oba Dokun Thompson, the Oloni of Eti-Oni, could not contain his excitement during the event.
“This road has been abandoned for over 40 years,” he said, his voice filled with emotion.
“When you have fertile land but no access to it, it feels like a cemetery. Today, this place is coming back to life,” he added.
The Oloni believes the project is not just a road but a beacon of hope for future generations.
“With this road, our youths will be encouraged to embrace agriculture,” he said, emphasizing the town’s potential in cocoa and other crops.
The timing of the project couldn’t be better, as the community prepares for its annual cocoa festival.
“This is the perfect gift for us,” the Oloni remarked, thanking President Tinubu for remembering their rural community.
Residents who have borne the brunt of the neglect echoed the monarch’s sentiments.
Chief Musibau Gbadamosi, a local farmer, highlighted the economic impact the road would bring.
“We are blessed with cocoa and other produce, and this road will change everything,” he said.
For decades, the people of Eti-Oni have struggled to access markets and attract investment due to poor infrastructure.
The road project is set to transform the area, allowing farmers to sell their produce more efficiently and boosting local businesses.
The Federal Ministry of Works has assured the community that the road will be constructed to high standards.
Minister Umahi urged the contractors to adhere strictly to specifications, ensuring value for the taxpayers’ money.
“This is not just about building a road; it’s about doing it right,” he said.
For many, the project symbolizes a renewed sense of belonging and hope under the Tinubu administration.
“If the president can remember this rural community, then we believe other areas will also benefit,” the Oloni said, expressing optimism.
The people of Eti-Oni and Atakumosa East are looking forward to the economic revival this project promises.
For now, the once-neglected road is no longer a symbol of despair but a pathway to a brighter future.
