Ibadan North completes road reconstruction: Thought there's embargo on road infrastructure by councils

Ibadan North completes road reconstruction: Thought there’s embargo on road infrastructure by councils

Khalid ABRAHAM

Scrolling through X (formerly Twitter), my eyes caught a news item on the handle of the Oyo State Government Feedback Service, titled, “Completed Reconstruction of 3.1 km Internal Roads in Olive Estate, Agodi, Ibadan by the Ibadan North Local Government Council.” The news instantly aroused my interest – road construction/rehabilitation by a local government council in Oyo state ke?

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This is because in Ogbomoso road construction/rehabilitation by local governments have become a rare thing. The narrative is always that there is no fund in local governments. What happens to your income? No high up in the councils dare divulge the obvious!

But how did Ibadan North local government manage to get fund to execute the 3.1kilometre road in the Olive Estate?

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The reconstruction it is stated included “construction of drainage systems to mitigate flooding and prevent erosion, surfacing and grading to deliver smoother, safer roadways for both motorists and pedestrians, improved access roads within the estate to ensure better connectivity with major roads in Agodi and the greater Ibadan North axis,” is described as “Strategic as it enhances mobility and improves living standards.”

It is added, “The Oyo State Government is committed to delivering durable infrastructure that supports urban development, enhances residential accessibility, and contributes to inclusive economic growth across local communities.”

What is “gwan” council chairmen in Ogbomoso zone? Isn’t it a shame that road infrastructure that used to be our pride is now in terrible state of disrepair. Driving through the metropolis and the surrounding towns is now a herculean task because of the ubiquitous dilapidated roads. New residential areas remain unopened up, which wasn’t like that in the past. It is a worrisome trend. You now see residents in various communities contributing to construct culverts and undertake minor repairs on roads. This is therefore a clarion call to emulate Ibadan North local government in this wise. Good road is prerequisite to good living and a pep to economic growth.

Let’s see a return to the good old days. Our chairmen need to wake up so they will bequeath notable impact, leave good memories and become endeared to the people they govern over.