The Osun State Government has said the newly completed ₦16.5 billion dual carriageway and 10 township roads in the Ilesa industrial corridor were deliberately constructed to stimulate economic growth, expand business hubs and support start-ups in the ancient town.
The Director of Highways in the state, Engr. Moruf Ojebode, disclosed this on Saturday while briefing journalists during an inspection of the road projects.
According to him, the projects form part of Governor Ademola Adeleke’s infrastructure-driven agenda aimed at repositioning Ilesa as a major commercial, industrial and economic hub in Osun State.
Ojebode explained that the improved road network, which spans about 20 kilometres, has significantly eased movement, improved access to markets and industrial clusters, and created a more business-friendly environment for investors and small-scale enterprises.
He noted that Ilesa had never experienced a dual carriageway before the current administration.
“The new dual carriageway starts from the palace of the Owa-Obokun, passes through the International Brewery axis and links the Ilesa–Akure Expressway,” he said.
“The road covers about 6.2 kilometres and is fully equipped with walkways and solar-powered street lights.”
Ojebode said the choice of the industrial corridor was strategic, noting that major facilities such as the International Brewery and other industrial concerns are located along the route.
“If you look at the geography of Ilesa, you will discover that the industrial section is the road we have chosen,” he said.
“After the completion of the road, areas that were once purely residential have transformed into companies and business hubs.”
He added that the dual carriageway has brought renewed visibility and economic uplift to the ancient town, attracting commercial activities and encouraging urban development.
Beyond the dual carriageway, Ojebode said the government has completed 10 additional township roads across Ilesa to further improve connectivity and urban mobility.
The roads include Ademoroti, Ogbon Titun, Bonke, Ita Ofa, Atakunmosa Market, Imose, Adeti, Oke Ese, Ajimoko and INEC roads.
Community leaders and residents commended the state government for the infrastructure interventions, describing them as timely and impactful.
They also endorsed Governor Adeleke for a second term, saying the projects aligned with the long-standing development demands of the community.
Chairman of Ilesa West Local Government, Hon. Oladiti Aluko, urged residents and road users to protect the infrastructure from abuse.
“Our governor has fulfilled part of his electoral promises to us, and we must make good use of these roads,” he said.
Also speaking, a community leader, Prince Adeyemi Adeniran, said the people of Ilesa were solidly behind the governor.
“He has performed excellently in infrastructure development, and we must continue to support his administration,” he said.
Residents said the road projects have not only improved transportation but also boosted property values, commercial activities and overall urban renewal in Ilesa.
