Shettima Commissions Ondo’s First Flyover in Akure, Says Project Will Ease Traffic and Boost Economy. By Chris Mark

Shettima Commissions Ondo’s First Flyover in Akure, Says Project Will Ease Traffic and Boost Economy

By Chris Mark

Vice President Kashim Shettima on Monday commissioned the Onyearugbulem–Shagari/Irese Road Flyover and Junction Improvement Project in Akure, describing it as a strategic intervention to ease congestion and spur industrial and commercial growth along the corridor.

Speaking at the ceremony along the Ilesha–Akure–Owo Expressway, Shettima said the project would improve traffic circulation, enhance road safety, and open up the axis for increased economic activity.

He commended the Ondo State Government for the intervention at a critical transport node, noting that such infrastructure is central to sustainable development and regional integration.

Ondo State Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, who hosted the event alongside Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, called the flyover a historic achievement as the first of its kind in Akure.

He said the project addresses long-standing traffic challenges at the Onyearugbulem–Shagari and Akure–Benin Expressway intersection, an area previously plagued by accidents, bottlenecks, and economic disruption.

“This corridor is a key gateway into the South-West and had suffered significant disruptions due to persistent gridlock,” Aiyedatiwa said. He noted the project began under late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu and was completed by his administration to ensure continuity.

The governor named the flyover after Afenifere leader Pa Reuben Fasoranti, who marked his 100th birthday on Monday. He said the structure, now known as the Rueben Fasoranti Flyover, has already improved traffic flow, cut travel time, and enhanced safety.

Aiyedatiwa said his administration has intensified infrastructure renewal over the past year, citing ongoing works on the Akure–Idanre, Akungba–Ikare, Okitipupa–Igbokoda, and College Road in Igbokoda.

He added that over 100 kilometres of roads across the state’s three senatorial districts have been rehabilitated or resurfaced, with several projects completed and others at advanced stages.

He praised indigenous contractors, engineers, and consultants for delivering the flyover, and thanked Akure residents for their patience during construction.

Dignitaries at the event included state executive members, traditional rulers, Islamic Cleric and security chiefs.