Victoria Ogunyemi
In a strategic move to Alleviate the impact of flooding and Enhance infrastructural development, the Oyo State Government has announced a comprehensive rollout of capital-intensive projects totaling over N18 billion. The projects span across environmental control, road rehabilitation, public safety, energy infrastructure, and urban beautification.
This development was disclosed in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, following the State Executive Council meeting held on Tuesday at the Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan.
The briefing was held on Wednesday in Ibadan, where Oyelade outlined the key decisions and their expected impact on the state.
As part of proactive flood management ahead of the 2025 rainy season, the state has commenced the dredging of 11 rivers identified as flood-prone.
This decision aligns with recent warnings from the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) and the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMet), which both predicted a high risk of flooding in multiple states, including Oyo.
The targeted rivers span strategic locations across Ibadan, Oyo, Iseyin, Ogbomoso, Igbo Ora, and other areas. The aim is to improve water flow, reduce flooding risks, and protect lives and property.
In a related environmental effort, the Council also approved the procurement of additional compactor trucks for the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, to enhance the efficiency of refuse collection across urban centers. The government noted that timely waste disposal is critical to flood prevention and urban cleanliness, especially during the rainy season.
To strengthen emergency response systems, the Council approved the procurement of firefighting auxiliary and special equipment for the Oyo State Fire Service Agency. These tools are expected to enhance firefighting and rescue operations, while also safeguarding firefighters against occupational hazards.
READ ALSO: Ibadan Stampede: Oyo Govt Drops Case Against Ooni’s Ex-Wife, Oriyomi Hamzat
The total cost for the dredging, waste management, and fire service upgrades is pegged at N690 million, according to the Commissioner.
Oyelade further revealed that the government has approved a project to supply a new transformer, power generator, and energy storage system for the Omololu Olunloyo Monumental Park. The park, located near the Ladoke Akintola Airport Road, is undergoing a facelift to meet international tourism and aesthetic standards. The entire project will cost N224.78 million, and it is expected to attract both local and international visitors, contributing to the state’s cultural economy.
A major infrastructural highlight is the installation of public lighting along Phase One of the Senator Rashidi Ladoja Circular Road, a 110-kilometre motorway designed to ease traffic congestion within the Ibadan metropolis. Oyelade emphasized that this lighting project will not only ensure road safety but also support the development of the night-time economy by boosting security and commercial activities at night.
This lighting infrastructure comes at a cost of N15.1 billion, representing one of the largest investments in road-related infrastructure in recent years within the state.
In further efforts to enhance urban mobility, the Council approved the rehabilitation of several key roads including the Bolajoko Estate Road Network, General Gas Area, Bishop’s Court Road, Jejelaye, Peace Roads, and the Anifalaje Area. These roadworks are estimated at a cost of N1.99 billion, and are aimed at improving intra-city transport, residential accessibility, and property value.
According to the government, the newly approved projects reflect Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration’s commitment to sustainable development, infrastructure renewal, environmental safety, and public welfare.
Commissioner Oyelade noted that the approvals are part of a broader plan to future-proof Oyo State against environmental, economic, and infrastructural challenges.
“These projects are not only about aesthetics or economic value,” he said. “They are about safeguarding our people, boosting investor confidence, and building a state that works for everyone day and night.