The Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, has flagged off the construction of the 37-kilometre Ejule–Ojeba–Unale–Onyedega road.
The Governor said the road project is part of his administration’s commitment to opening up rural communities, stimulating economic activities and ensuring equitable distribution of infrastructure across the state.
Ododo flagged off the road connecting Idah Local Government Area to the headquarters of Ibaji Local Government Area on Monday, describing the project as a fulfilment of his administration’s commitment to bringing development closer to the people, particularly those in rural communities.
The governor explained that the time taken before commencement was necessary to ensure proper planning, due diligence and readiness for effective project delivery.
He maintained that governance required deliberate action rather than political showmanship.
Governor Ododo also called on residents to put development above political differences, insisting that infrastructure and government interventions must not be influenced by political affiliations.
The governor, who commended President Bola Tinubu for his leadership and support for development at the subnational level, said the road would improve connectivity, facilitate the movement of agricultural produce, strengthen commercial activities and open up new economic opportunities for the people.
He charged China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) to deliver a durable road project in line with approved specifications, stressing that the people could no longer afford to endure poor infrastructure.
Beyond infrastructure development, the governor used the occasion to caution traditional rulers against actions capable of triggering communal conflicts and insecurity.
He urged them to deploy their traditional authority towards promoting peaceful coexistence, warning that any traditional ruler found instigating communal crises would be held accountable in accordance with the law.
Providing further insight into the significance of the project, the Commissioner for Works, Momoh Ozigi, described the flag-off as the fulfilment of a longstanding aspiration of the people.
He recalled that the road had remained in a deplorable condition for over twenty years, with seasonal flooding and failed portions becoming particularly difficult during the rainy season.
According to him, the situation had negatively affected agricultural production, healthcare delivery, transportation and other economic activities in the area.
The commissioner appealed to residents, community leaders and other stakeholders to cooperate with the construction company, maintain a peaceful working environment and protect government infrastructure.
For the two local government councils, the commencement of the project represented a major development intervention.
The Chairman of Ibaji, Honourable Alexander Ukwela, expressed appreciation to Governor Ododo for responding to the longstanding concerns of their people.
The Ibaji Council Chairman recalled the governor’s visit to the area on July 13, 2026, during which he promised to reconstruct the road.
He described the flag-off as the beginning of the fulfilment of that commitment and pledged the support of the local government and community stakeholders to ensure successful execution.
When completed, the Idah–Ibaji road is expected to significantly improve transportation, enhance access to essential services, boost agricultural activities and strengthen economic connections between communities in the two local government areas.
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