Re: Concerns over construction of new Ogbomoso–Oyo road

Re: Concerns over construction of new Ogbomoso–Oyo road

Oluwakayode MATHEW

The concerns expressed by residents and stakeholders regarding the ongoing construction of the Ogbomoso–Oyo road are understandable, given the historical challenges associated with this critical corridor and the importance of the project to regional connectivity and economic development. Public scrutiny, in this regard, is not only expected but also necessary to ensure accountability and transparency.

However, it is important to provide clarity and reassurance that the project is being executed under a well-structured and strictly enforced quality control framework designed to meet both national and international engineering standards.

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Concerns over construction of new Ogbomoso – Oyo road

As one of the service providers involved in this project, I can confidently attest that all construction activities are being carried out in line with a Quality Management System (QMS) compliant with ISO 9001 standards, which represents global best practice in engineering project delivery. Every stage of the work is guided by approved design specifications and supported by carefully developed Internal Test Plans (ITP), Method Statements, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

These processes are not merely procedural documents; they have undergone rigorous scrutiny and approval by the internal Quality Management team, as well as the Federal Government and supervising Consultants. In practical terms, this means that materials are tested, processes are verified, and outputs are inspected continuously to ensure compliance with required specifications.

The project is being executed by JRB, an indigenous engineering contractor, with demonstrated technical capacity in delivering infrastructure projects in strict compliance with approved design specifications, quality management systems, and applicable engineering standards.

Furthermore, there is ongoing monitoring, testing, and supervision at every phase of the project, from earthworks and subgrade preparation to pavement construction. This multi-layered quality assurance approach is specifically designed to guarantee durability, structural integrity, and long-term performance of the road.

It is also worthwhile to emphasize that the Honourable Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, has demonstrated a strong and personal commitment to the success of this project. His multiple visits to the site—conducted primarily for inspection purposes and without unnecessary publicity or media attention—reflect a hands-on leadership approach and a clear determination to ensure that standards are not compromised at any stage.

While concerns about pace, safety features, and execution are valid areas for public interest, it is important to balance these perceptions with verified facts on ground. The systems, processes, and oversight mechanisms currently in place are aligned with delivering a road that meets expectations—not just at completion, but throughout its lifespan.

As a further demonstration of transparency and accountability, and in recognition of the concerns raised, I am committed—as a friend of the publisher—to facilitating a thorough, independent, and transparent inspection of the project.

This will provide an additional layer of assurance to stakeholders and the general public that the work being carried out meets the highest standards of quality and engineering practice.

Ultimately, this project is too important to be compromised. The collective goal remains clear: to deliver a safe, durable, and economically impactful roadway that will serve communities and the nation effectively for many years to come.

Mathew sends this piece from Oyo state