Gov AbdulRazaq flags off 209.77km rural road construction in Kwara
By Mosunmola Ayobami, Ilorin
Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, on Monday, flagged off the construction, rehabilitation, and upgrade of rural roads totaling 209.77 kilometers, reinforcing his administration’s commitment to connecting the state’s agrarian areas to urban markets and bolstering food security.
The projects are being implemented under the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP), for which the state government has committed at least N4 billion in counterpart funding over the last five years. RAAMP is jointly funded by the World Bank and the French Development Agency, with the state providing the necessary counterpart funds.
Governor AbdulRazaq announced that the 209.77km road projects, valued at N19,404,220,675.55, will benefit the people across the state. The road projects include the Alapa-Hoko (0.7km), Madi-Peke (17.5km), Mandala-Yowere-Agbonna (12.485km), Gerewu-Eiyekorin-Okoolowo Expressway (3.07km), Panada-Oloro (5.43km), Inaja-Alaro-Inaja Maliki (6.22km), Ijagbo-Aperun-Adeleke-Igbawere (6.85km), and Kpandarako-Ginda-Kusomunu-Kachitako-Tsakpata-Lealea-Gulufu Bacita (22.89km), among others.
At the ceremony in Ilorin, Governor AbdulRazaq stated, “This flag-off for the construction, rehabilitation, and upgrade of rural roads spanning 209.77 kilometers and connecting 16 local government areas is the result of significant investment, strategic planning, and our commitment to rural development, food security, and rapid socioeconomic growth.”
The event attracted national and state parliamentarians, members of the judiciary, cabinet members, and traditional leaders. Among the dignitaries were Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly, Yakubu Danladi Saliu; Senators Saliu Mustapha (Kwara Central), Lola Ashiru (South), and Sadiq Umar (North); and House of Representatives member Mukhtar Shagaya. Traditional rulers included the Emir of Ilorin, represented by Etsu Patigi, Alhaji Ibrahim Umar Bolugi; and other monarchs.
Governor AbdulRazaq commended the World Bank, the French Development Agency, and the Federal Project Management Unit (FPMU) under the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development for their support in coordinating RAAMP activities in Nigeria. He also announced plans to award contracts for the construction of three agro-logistics centers in Ajase-Ipo, Alapa, and Kaiama, alongside more rural roads across the state.
“Upon assuming office in 2019, our administration immediately paid the first tranche of the counterpart fund. Between 2019 and now, we have paid N4.03 billion in counterpart funding, with no payments made prior to 2019,” the governor revealed.
Senator Ashiru, speaking on behalf of the state’s National Assembly members, praised the governor for fulfilling the funding requirements for RAAMP, which previous administrations had neglected. He called Governor AbdulRazaq a “champion of the masses.”
The Speaker of the House of Assembly, Yakubu Danladi Saliu, commended the project, describing it as a crucial initiative that will improve access to farm produce and contribute to the state’s socio-economic development. Works Commissioner Abdulquawiy Olododo noted that the project would enhance connectivity, stimulate economic growth, and improve the quality of life for citizens.
“For 2024, over 170 road projects have been initiated across Kwara State, with at least 65% already completed, while others are progressing at a satisfactory pace,” Olododo added.
RAAMP State Coordinator, Engr Isaac Kolo, emphasized that the governor’s investments in rural road infrastructure and agro-logistics facilities reflect his vision, dedication, and commitment to the welfare of the people.
