The Obalufe of Ile-Ife, Osun State, Oba Idowu Adediwura, has commended Governor Ademola Adeleke for executing critical infrastructure projects in the ancient city, saying the developments have preserved its cultural heritage and restored its global image.
Oba Adediwura, who is the Second-in-Command to the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and head of the kingmakers, said the ongoing N14bn flyover and multiple township road projects have significantly improved access to key cultural and historical sites in Ile-Ife.
Adeleke’s Infrastructure Drive Restores Ile-Ife’s Pride
Speaking on Tuesday after inspecting projects with officials of the Osun State Government led by the Director of Highways, Moruf Ojebode, the traditional ruler lamented years of infrastructural neglect in Ile-Ife.
According to him, the poor state of roads had long embarrassed the cradle of the Yoruba race, especially when tourists and visitors from across the world arrived in the ancient city.
“It will be unfortunate when visitors come from all over the world to their source and see that most roads are not motorable. It is so embarrassing,” Oba Adediwura said.
He added, “I want to commend Governor Adeleke for saving us from global embarrassment through the ongoing flyover project and other township roads.”
N14bn Flyover, 17 Road Projects Boost Cultural Tourism
The Obalufe noted that the infrastructure projects would enhance cultural promotion and boost tourism in Ile-Ife, particularly as the town prepares for major festivals.
“With good roads, our culture will be promoted in Ife. As we approach the Olojo Festival in September and the Aje Festival next week, tourists and worshippers will travel on better roads,” he stated.
The N14bn flyover project, described as a landmark development in Osun State, is expected to ease traffic congestion and improve connectivity within the ancient city.
Flyover 80% Complete – Osun Govt
Providing updates on the projects, Director of Highways Moruf Ojebode disclosed that the N14bn Ile-Ife flyover is about 80 per cent complete and will be delivered within record time.
He also listed several completed road projects across Ile-Ife and surrounding communities, including:
Iredunmi–Oke Ijan Road
Oriyangi–St John Road
Manchester–Igboya Road
Olurin–Omi Okun Road
Ife City Benediction Road
London Street–Iremo
Ogbingbin–Garage Isale
Agric–Opa Ife
Akinlalu Junction–Akinlalu Town
Magistrate Court–Itamerin Yakooyo
AP Junction Road–Itasin Junction, Modakeke
Cele Road–Ajape Junction, Modakeke
RCM Road One, Alafia Ifetedo
Moore Babaakodi
Osun State University Road
Ojebode added that construction is ongoing on the Edunabon–Tonkere Road and Ayedaade Road.
Preserving the Cradle of the Yoruba Race
Stakeholders say the ongoing infrastructure development in Ile-Ife is crucial to maintaining the city’s status as the spiritual and cultural headquarters of the Yoruba people.
With improved road networks and the near-completion of the N14bn flyover, the Osun State Government’s intervention is expected to strengthen tourism, enhance economic activity, and elevate Ile-Ife’s standing on the global stage.
