Vice President Kashim Shettima on Monday commissioned the Onyearugbulem–Shagari/Irese Road Flyover and Junction Improvement Project in Akure, describing the project as a strategic infrastructure investment capable of boosting industrial growth, improving road safety, and easing traffic congestion in Ondo State.
The commissioning ceremony, held along the busy Ilesha–Akure–Owo Expressway, drew top government officials, traditional rulers, security chiefs, and residents who gathered to witness the inauguration of what has been described as Akure’s first flyover bridge.
Speaking at the event, Vice President Shettima said the project would significantly improve traffic circulation along the corridor while opening up the axis for greater commercial and economic activities.
He commended the Ondo State Government for embarking on what he termed a timely intervention at a critical transport junction, noting that strategic infrastructure development remains vital to regional integration and sustainable economic advancement.
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, who hosted the event alongside Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, described the flyover as a landmark achievement in the infrastructural history of the state.
According to Governor Aiyedatiwa, the project represents more than a physical structure, stressing that it was conceived to permanently tackle years of traffic congestion, frequent accidents, and economic losses associated with the Irese junction.
He recalled that the intersection linking the Onyearugbulem–Shagari axis with the Akure–Benin Expressway had long been notorious for deadly crashes, gridlock, and delays that affected both commuters and businesses.
The governor noted that the strategic corridor serves as a major gateway into the South-West and had, over the years, experienced disruptions to commercial activities due to persistent traffic bottlenecks.
Aiyedatiwa explained that the flyover project was initiated under the administration of the late former governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, and sustained by his administration in line with its commitment to continuity in governance and infrastructure development.
In honour of the leader of Afenifere, Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, who turned 100 on Monday, the governor announced that the flyover would henceforth be known as the Reuben Fasoranti Flyover.
Governor Aiyedatiwa said his administration had intensified infrastructure renewal across Ondo State within the last year, insisting that quality roads and public infrastructure remain essential for economic growth, investment attraction, and improved living standards.
He listed several ongoing and completed road projects across the state, including the dualisation of the Akure–Idanre Road, Akungba–Ikare Road, Okitipupa–Igbokoda Road, and College Road in Igbokoda.
The governor also highlighted the rehabilitation and asphalt overlay of more than 100 kilometres of roads across the three senatorial districts, including Akure–Ijare Road, Akure–Imafon Road, Aiyegunle–Oka Road, and Igbotako Road.
According to him, many of the projects have already been completed and commissioned, while others are nearing completion.
Describing the Reuben Fasoranti Flyover as one of the flagship projects of his administration, Aiyedatiwa stated that the bridge has already improved traffic flow, reduced travel time, and enhanced safety for motorists and pedestrians along the ever-busy route.
He commended the contractors, engineers, consultants, and workers involved in the execution of the project, noting that indigenous professionals played a major role in delivering the infrastructure successfully.
The governor also appreciated residents of Akure for their patience and cooperation throughout the construction period, assuring them that the project would stand as a lasting legacy for future generations.
