Demonstrating his steadfast commitment to improving infrastructure and fostering sustainable development across Ikorodu, Rep. Babajimi Benson, the national legislator representing Ikorodu Federal Constituency, embarked on a comprehensive inspection tour of two critical road projects on the 21st of September, 2024.
These road projects are vital to the overall development of the region and form part of the federal government’s effort to improve access, mobility, and economic growth within Ikorodu division.
The inspection attracted widespread attention from community leaders, residents, and local government officials, all eager to witness firsthand the progress made on these long-awaited road projects.
During the tour, Rep. Benson’s inspection focused on the Asolo Road within Ikorodu West Local Council Development Area (LCDA) and the 4.5-kilometer road stretching from Abule-Eko to Ewu-Owa in Ijede LCDA.
These strategic routes serve as major arteries within the constituency, connecting various communities and facilitating the movement of goods and services.
The project aims to address infrastructural deficits that have hindered economic activities while also easing the daily struggles of residents, particularly during the rainy season.
As part of his visit, Rep. Benson reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that these vital infrastructure projects are completed on schedule and built to last.
Speaking to residents and local leaders and members of the press, he stressed the importance of modern infrastructure in fostering socio-economic growth and improving the overall quality of life in Ikorodu.
Benson emphasized the long-term benefits of the project, stating that the new roads would not only reduce travel time but also play a critical role in boosting trade, commerce, and other economic activities within the region.
“This project goes beyond building roads; it’s about building bridges between communities and improving lives. The people of Ikorodu deserve roads that are durable, efficient, and built to serve future generations,” Benson remarked during his interaction with the community members.
Accompanying Rep. Benson on the inspection was Hon. Motunrayo Gbadebo-Alogba, the Executive Chairman of Ijede LCDA, who praised the lawmaker’s foresight and dedication to the community.
She emphasized the transformative potential of the road project, noting that it would greatly reduce travel time for residents and encourage new economic ventures in Ijede.
“This road is a lifeline for our people. We are deeply thankful to Rep. Benson for prioritizing it. With better roads, we’ll see more businesses flourish, and the community will grow,”
“The economic benefits of the project will revitalize local commerce and attract new investment into our areas,” she added.
Similarly, Hon. Sulaimon Kazeem Olarewaju, Executive Chairman of Ikorodu West LCDA, expressed his appreciation for the work being done on the Asolo Road, a key route that has long been in disrepair.
He praised Rep. Benson’s steadfast commitment to infrastructural development, noting that the lawmaker’s contributions have significantly improved the quality of life in the area.
“We have seen a remarkable improvement since the project began. Rep. Benson has been a consistent advocate for the people of Ikorodu, and we stand firmly behind his efforts,”
“The road project has already begun to transform Ikorodu West, with increased accessibility leading to renewed local economic activity,” said Hon. Olarewaju.
As the inspection progressed, community stakeholders also voiced their support for the road projects.
Mr. Adeniran Ogunbawo, the Chairman of the Community Development Committee (CDC), spoke on behalf of the communities, emphasizing the collaborative efforts between residents and contractors to ensure smooth progress.
He pointed out that several hotel owners within the community had generously offered free accommodation to the contractors, a gesture that not only demonstrated the community’s commitment to the project but also alleviated logistical challenges for the construction teams.
“We have seen unprecedented cooperation from all sides,” Ogunbawo remarked, noting that this collaboration has played a crucial role in maintaining the pace of the construction work.
Furthermore, Mr. Ogunbawo praised the proactive role played by the local Baale (traditional head) in ensuring the security of the construction site.
The Baale, in coordination with local security outfits, has been instrumental in safeguarding equipment and materials, ensuring that the construction process remains uninterrupted.
“Without the Baale’s leadership in organizing security, we might have faced delays or setbacks. His efforts have ensured that this project stays on track,” Ogunbawo explained.
The community’s collective efforts have greatly contributed to the steady progress of the road project, which is expected to significantly improve transportation and access within the region.
Hon. Motunrayo Gbadebo-Alogba further expressed her appreciation for the road project during the inspection, highlighting its positive impact on Ijede and surrounding communities.
She recounted the dire condition of the road before the intervention, explaining that its disrepair had led many residents to abandon their homes and businesses.
“The road was in such a terrible state that people were leaving the area, selling their properties, and giving up on the community,” she said, describing the difficult times the residents endured.
However, the ongoing construction has already started reversing that trend. “Now, with this road under construction, we’re seeing a resurgence. People are reconsidering their decisions, returning to the community, and businesses are beginning to thrive again,” Gbadebo-Alogba noted, expressing her optimism for the future.
She also took the opportunity to thank the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC), local CDC Chairmen, and the entire community for their support throughout the project.
With his consistent focus on infrastructure enhancement over the years, these road projects reflect Rep. Benson’s broader vision of transforming Ikorodu division through people-centered policies and development.
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