On Wednesday, April 30, 2025, Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa fulfilled a major campaign promise by flagging off the dualisation of the Akure-Idanre Road, an economically strategic and historically significant route in Ondo State.
This landmark project exemplifies his leadership style: governance defined by action rather than rhetoric.
More than just a road, the Akure-Idanre corridor represents the governor’s unwavering commitment to equity, rural development, and inclusive growth. During his campaign, Aiyedatiwa pledged to open up underserved communities, enhance agricultural logistics, and boost tourism infrastructure. Less than four months into his administration, he is delivering, proving to be a promise keeper and a leader attuned to the people’s needs.
Idanre, famed for its stunning hills and cultural heritage, is also Nigeria’s largest cocoa-producing area. Yet, for decades, poor infrastructure has hampered farmers from efficiently transporting their produce to markets.
The road’s dualisation will change that, reducing losses from delays and spoilage and providing safer, quicker access to economic opportunities.
Governor Aiyedatiwa assured residents that no cocoa farmland would be harmed in the process, underscoring his administration’s pro-agriculture stance. This project, he emphasized, is an investment in the livelihoods of thousands of farmers, transporters, and agro-entrepreneurs.
The governor also recognizes Idanre’s untapped tourism potential. With the dualised road linking the state capital to the globally renowned Idanre Hills, the project paves the way for increased local and international tourism, new jobs, hospitality growth, and higher internally generated revenue for Ondo State.
Speaking at the flag-off, Governor Aiyedatiwa said: “This project is a powerful testimony to our administration’s resolve to build an Ondo State where opportunities are not just promised, but accessible—a place where every citizen can thrive in an environment of shared prosperity.”
He noted that the road will feature dual carriageways measuring 9.3 meters in width, 1.5-meter walkways on both sides, a 3-meter utility bay, line drains, medians, and traffic lights at key intersections. The governor promised top-quality work and timely completion.
The atmosphere at the ceremony was one of celebration. Traditional leaders, community stakeholders, and residents lauded the governor’s commitment to development.
Notably, PDP lawmaker Hon. Festus Akingbaso (Idanre/Ifedore Federal Constituency), and local government chairmen Gbenga Fasua (Akure South) and Smart Omotadowa (Idanre), praised the initiative as a “transformational step” for the area.
As someone familiar with both Idanre and the Oke-Aro axis, I can attest to the transformative impact this project will have on residents’ lives.
Governor Aiyedatiwa’s leadership, grounded in consultation, fairness, and action, sets him apart. At a time when many politicians forget their promises post-election, he is proving to be a man of his word.
This road isn’t just an infrastructure upgrade, it’s a symbol of restored trust, renewed hope, and inclusive governance.
As construction advances, the people of Idanre and Akure won’t just witness the building of a road. They will witness the rise of a new Ondo State, one where promises are fulfilled, opportunities are expanded, and prosperity is a shared reality.
