The Federal Roads Maintenance Engineer of Oyo State Field Office, Federal Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA), Engr. Tunde Adepoju, has expressed satisfaction with the progress of ongoing and completed road maintenance projects across Oyo State under the agency’s ‘Operation Connect Your Destination’ initiative.
Engr. Adepoju was recently deployed to Oyo state from Enugu zone, commended the seamless collaboration between the federal agency, state, and local governments.
During a media chat yesterday at his Jericho office in Ibadan, Engr. Adepoju highlighted that FERMA’s efforts, coupled with those of the Oyo State government, have resulted in significant road rehabilitation and maintenance achievements.
He emphasized the importance of collaboration in fast-tracking projects that directly impact the lives of the people of the state.
Among the key projects mentioned were the rehabilitation of: Awo Farm Road along Idunnu, Saint Peters Road and an adjoining road in front of the LG Secretariat (spanning about 9 km), NIHORT Road, all within Ido Local Government.
Westernmirror.com.ng reports that FERMA is currently focusing on road projects in Akinyele, Oluyole, Ogbomoso, Fiditi, and Oyo. In Oluyole Local Government, the agency has fixed the Elebu Road off Akala Express, while the state government handled the Akala Expressway.
Engr. Adepoju acknowledged the efforts of Hon. Remi Oseni, the federal lawmaker representing Ido Local Government and Chairman of the House of Reps Committee on FERMA, in facilitating the road maintenance projects in Ido. He explained that FERMA collaborates with elected officials to fulfill campaign promises made to constituents.
Commending Governor Seyi Makinde for his focus on road infrastructure, Adepoju clarified that not all road projects in the state are solely managed by the state government adding that FERMA has also been actively involved in rehabilitating and maintaining several roads across the state.
On the Oyo-Ogbomoso Federal Road, Engr. Adepoju disclosed that FERMA has completed work on four sections and fixed the old Ibadan-Fiditi road. He assured residents that further maintenance and rehabilitation efforts would resume after the 2025 holiday season.
Engr. Adepoju also disclosed that FERMA has also worked on sections of the Ibadan-Ogbomoso road, particularly the RAMP area along the Roundabout, while the Kwara State FERMA office has addressed potholes on the old Kwara-Ogbomoso road. However, financial constraints have delayed the opening of the new Kwara-Ogbomoso road by the contractor.
Engr. Adepoju lamented challenges such as traffic rule violations and the overloading of heavy-duty trucks, which accelerate road damages. He stressed the need for Way-bridges to monitor truck weights and ensure road sustainability.
He also highlighted issues with unauthorized digging by telecommunication companies during their facility maintenance, which often damages roads. “Until we collectively guard public infrastructure, achieving sustainable development will remain challenging,” he remarked.
Adepoju praised the implementation of road furniture by FERMA such as markings and signs, citing their role in prolonging road lifespan. He also commended the federal government’s efforts on major projects like the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway and the new Oyo-Ogbomoso road.
He affirmed that FERMA’s priorities in Oyo State include addressing major roads of public concern, such as the Oyo-Ogbomoso Road, Challenge-Molete Road, and Mamu-Ogunmakin Road saying the agency is also focused on collaborating with local governments in its ongoing efforts ahead of 2025.
“These roads belong to the people, and it is crucial that we all take collective responsibility for their maintenance and protection,” Adepoju emphasized.
Engr. Adepoju said as part of FERMA’s broader mandate, the agency remains committed to delivering high-quality road maintenance and rehabilitation that will enhance trade, ensure safer commutes, and improve the transportation system across Oyo State and beyond.