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Abandoned Ogun Roads Receive Govt’s Attention

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Abandoned Ogun Roads Receive Govt's Attention

Abandoned Ogun Roads Receive Govt’s Attention By Seyi Bakare

 

 

Recently, the Ogun State government ordered the contractor handling the Mowe-Ofada road reconstruction in Obafemi-Owode Local Government area of the state back to site. Contract for the reconstruction of the eight-kilometer road was awarded by the immediate past administration of Governor Ibikunle Amosun in 2013.

 

Abandoned Ogun Roads Receive Govt's Attention

 

The people’s hopes were however dashed as the contractor stopped work in 2018, citing the non-payment of the N500 million owed it by the state government. But the sorry past is now prologue: the project stretching from Ofada Roundabout to Mowe junction and linking the Lagos-Ibadan expressway is now back on course.

 

 

For the Dapo Abiodun-led administration, completing all abandoned projects left by previous administrations, particularly those with a high potential to drive the development narrative of the Gateway State, is an article of faith. It doesn’t matter who initiated what: what matters is value for the people’s money. That is why, for instance, the cargo airport envisioned by the Gbenga Daniel administration is being built as we speak.

 

 

 

But we turn to the roads. When he came on board, the Ogun helmsman set up a Contract Review Committee headed by Adekunle Mokuolu with a view to revisiting all abandoned projects in the state.

 

 

The committee’s report, turned in on September 8, 2020, identified countless infractions, but the highlight was that the current administration would need more than N218 billion to complete the inherited projects spread across the three senatorial districts. A total of 114 contracts were awarded during the period under review (2009-2019), at a total cost of N349,376,997.76, while total payment for the contracts/projects stood at N130,735,758,922:75. The total sum for the unpaid Certificate of Valuation (CV) for work done stood at N20,741,675,388:76.

 

 

 

 

Apparently, successive governments embarked on white elephants for reasons of political gain. Immediately after they demolished buildings to pave way for their promised roads, they stopped work on them. The result was untold hardship for many citizens. In particular, landlords and families whose houses were demolished suffered mental anguish as they watched the sites of their former homes waste away, awaiting roads that never came.

 

 

 

There was no compensation whatsoever. From Akute to Alagbole and Mowe, roads were abandoned. But even with the limitations imposed on the state’s finances by the Covid-19 pandemic, the Abiodun government was determined to complete the projects, saying they were meant for the good of Ogun, and that those suffering in the communities deserved a good life. The Abiodun administration has embarked on aggressive construction and rehabilitation of the road projects.

 

 

Contractors are back on site. Instructively, the review cost is about 10 or 16 per cent of the initial or actual cost quoted by previous governments. In 2021, with the naira having fallen drastically, Abiodun is spending 15 per cent of the sum originally quoted by previous governments on the abandoned projects, showing that the initial costs were bogus. To him, all abandoned projects must be given a facelift in the interest of the people.

To take a few examples: the 42-kilometre Sagamu-Siun-Abeokuta road, which the Amosun administration awarded at a total cost of N60 billion but later abandoned, is being reconstructed by a firm, Strabic, with two layers (binding and wearing course) at a cost less than N20 billion, with street lighting. The administration has, among many others, completed the 10-lane, 19-kilometre Ijebu-Ode/Epe road linking Ogun with Lagos State, one of the best ever roads constructed in the annals of Nigeria. The Lafenwa-Olorunda-Aiyetoro road abandoned in 2012 is back to life. The Abiodun administration approved the erection of a flyover at Lafenwa and undertook the relocation of powerline at Odeda in order to pave way for the railway line passing through the state. The projects have a long-life expectancy of between 10 and 15 years before resurfacing.

Further evidence that the administration sets great story by road construction is provided by the work of the Ogun State Public Works Agency (OGPWA), which has been tasked with fixing at least 15 roads on a monthly basis across the state. This month of August, the agency is rehabilitating 13 roads. The distribution is as follows: Ogun East, five roads; Ogun Central, four roads; and Ogun West, four roads. Indeed, between January and June this year, the government has built 54 road roads across the state: 29 in Ogun Central, 10 in Ogun West 10 and 15 in Ogun East. It expended a total of N7.389bn on the projects, including Raypower, Navy-Osi-Ikola roads in Ado-Odo/Ota local government; the Fajol-Ajegunle-America Junction-Alogi road and American Junction-Unity Estate road in Abeokuta South and Odeda local government areas, and the Ejirin-Mobalufon- Oluwalogbon road (Ijebu-Ode LGA) and Ilaro-Owode road in Yewa South local government area.

Of course, there is the Joju road (Ado-Odo/Ota LGA), Lantoro-Elite-Idi-Aba road (Abeokuta South LGA), NNPC Mega Station road (Abeokuta South LGA), Somorin-Kemta-Idi Aba Road (Odeda LGA), Imasayi-Igan Okoto-Ayetoro road (Yewa North LGA), and the Papalanto-Ilaro road (Ewekoro LGA). The projects also include the asphalting of Lafenwa-Rounder road (Abeokuta North LGA), palliative works on Sango junction-Ojuore road (Ado-Odo/Ota LGA) and the construction of City Gate monument at Sagamu Interchange (Obafemi-Owode LGA); the construction of an internal road linking Ifo General Hospital and renovation of Ifo Fire Station, rehabilitation of Olowomore-Sanni and Olowomore-Brewery roads, both in Abeokuta North, and the expansion of the link road connecting Alaba Lawson School and /CBN/MTD, Ibara.

In a clime marred by discontinuity politics, where politicians abandon projects only because they did not initiate them, costing taxpayers humongous losses, it is apposite to dwell on the paradigm shift in Ogun State. In his inaugural speech on May 29, 2019, Governor Abiodun placed emphasis on the upgrade, rehabilitation, repair and restructuring of township and rural roads that were of economic benefit to the state. Looking back two years after, it’s been promise made, promise kept. And that’s how it should be.

*Bakare contributes this piece from [email protected]

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Mayor of Brampton Honours IBD Foundation

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Mayor of Brampton Honours IBD Foundation

 

The City of Brampton has recognised Alhaji Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun for his remarkable contributions to a transformative initiative designed to empower women through essential skill-building for independence and self-reliance. This formal acknowledgment took place on August 15, 2025, in Mayor Patrick Brown’s office during a visit from the Africa Made Economic Growth Initiative (AMEGI) team. Represented by his wife, Mrs. Omolara Egungbohun, Alhaji Dende received the certification amidst an atmosphere of gratitude and celebration. Mayor Brown presented the certificate personally and extended his commendations to the IBD Foundation for their relentless pursuit of women’s empowerment, development, and their philanthropic efforts.

The Certificate of Recognition underscored Egungbohun’s unwavering dedication and tireless efforts to create diverse opportunities for women to enhance their skills, develop their potential, and ultimately prosper in their personal and professional lives. As a philanthropist, esteemed businessman, and influential social figure, his impact in Nigeria and beyond is both profound and far-reaching.

Egungbohun’s generosity and steadfast commitment have significantly bolstered the confidence of program participants, facilitating their ability to envision and construct brighter futures while strengthening community ties. In his acknowledgment, Mayor Brown stated, “Your dedication uplifts those working to inspire others,” highlighting the deep and lasting influence of Egungbohun’s work in empowering women.

Mayor of Brampton Honours IBD Foundation

This initiative is not just a standalone effort; it harmonizes perfectly with Brampton’s broader mission to advocate for and uplift marginalized groups within the community. Egungbohun’s contributions serve as a vital catalyst for transformative change, offering practical skills that enhance employability while reshaping the economic and social framework for women. Through an assortment of workshops, mentorship programs, and robust support networks, he has fostered an encouraging environment where women can fully explore and realize their potential.

As Brampton steadfastly commits itself to promoting inclusivity and equity, leaders like Egungbohun exemplify how collaboration, vision, and genuine enthusiastic engagement can effectively turn hopes and aspirations into tangible realities. The public acknowledgment from the city not only honors individual efforts but also sends a resounding message, inspiring other community leaders and stakeholders to step up and invest in grassroots empowerment initiatives that uplift and serve those in need. This recognition is a clarion call for collective action toward a more equitable and inclusive society.

 

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Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

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Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

 

 

Tayo Folorunsho, renowned youth ambassador and edutainment advocate, has been officially nominated to be decorated as a Celebrity Special Marshal (CSM) of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).

 

Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

 

The unveiling took place at the recently concluded FRSC Youth Hangout, held in celebration of the United Nations International Youth Day at the National Judicial Institute, Abuja.

 

 

Over the years, Tayo Folorunsho has distinguished himself as a passionate youth leader, consistently driving initiatives that inspire and empower young people. His recognition as a Celebrity Special Marshal is not only a mark of honor but also a call to responsibility—championing road safety, responsibility, and positive change within society.

 

Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

 

Speaking on the recognition, Tayo Folorunsho emphasized:

“This is more than an honor; it is a responsibility to use my voice and influence to promote safety, responsibility, and positive change on our roads.”

 

This milestone reinforces his commitment to youth empowerment, social responsibility, and nation-building through edutainment and advocacy.

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FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

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FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

 

In a country where road accidents claim thousands of lives each year—most of them young people—the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and Edutainment First International have launched a bold new initiative to change the narrative. On Thursday, August 14, both organizations hosted the maiden Road Safety Youth Hangout at the National Judicial Institute, Abuja.

 

FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

 

The event, held to mark United Nations International Youth Day 2025, brought together more than 300 participants, including members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), students, youth leaders, and community representatives. Unlike traditional road safety campaigns, the hangout was designed as an interactive forum blending education and entertainment, where young Nigerians could learn, innovate, and commit to safer road practices.

 

 

According to FRSC data, young people remain the most vulnerable demographic in road traffic crashes across Nigeria—an urgent concern this initiative aims to tackle. Through storytelling, innovation, and collaborative problem-solving, the Road Safety Youth Hangout sought to transform young Nigerians into advocates for safety within their communities.

 

 

“This is not just about rules and regulations,” said one of the organizers. “It’s about equipping young people with the tools and the voice to change Nigeria’s road culture.”

 

Aligned with the UN’s 2025 theme, “Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond,” the program underscored the critical role of young Nigerians in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those connected to health, safety, and responsible citizenship.

 

 

By focusing on empowerment rather than enforcement, FRSC and Edutainment First International signaled a fresh approach to road safety: investing in the next generation as the real drivers of change. The belief is simple yet powerful—an informed and empowered youth population is key to reducing accidents and saving lives.

 

 

For many participants, the hangout was more than just an event; it was a wake-up call. With interactive sessions infused with music, drama, and dialogue, young Nigerians were challenged to reflect on their daily habits as road users and to embrace leadership as advocates for safer communities.

 

 

As one youth participant reflected:

“Road safety isn’t just the job of the FRSC. It’s our responsibility too—because we are the ones most at risk.”

 

The maiden edition of the Road Safety Youth Hangout may have ended, but the movement it launched has only just begun. Its message was unmistakable: Nigeria’s fight for safer roads must be youth-led, collaborative, and relentless.

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