The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja (Aruna I), has called on the Federal Ministry of Works to ensure the use of high-quality materials in road construction projects, stressing that durable infrastructure is essential for the development of Ibadan, Oyo State and Nigeria as a whole.
The monarch made the appeal while receiving a delegation from the Federal Ministry of Works, led by Mr. Aina Kolawole, during a courtesy visit to the Olubadan Palace at Oke-Aremo in Ibadan on Monday.
Oba Ladoja commended President Bola Tinubu for the ongoing road construction and rehabilitation projects across Ibadan and Oyo State, describing the Federal Government’s investment in infrastructure as encouraging. However, he emphasised that quality workmanship should remain the top priority to ensure the roads last for many years.
He expressed concern over the rapid deterioration of some roads, attributing the problem to the movement of overloaded trucks and heavy-duty vehicles, as well as poor drainage systems along major highways.
The traditional ruler also pledged the support of the Ibadan traditional institution in promoting environmental sanitation. He said the palace would continue to educate residents on the dangers of dumping refuse into drainage channels and waterways, noting that such practices contribute to flooding and damage to road infrastructure.
Speaking on behalf of the ministry, delegation leader Mr. Aina Kolawole appreciated the Olubadan and members of the Olubadan-in-Council for the warm reception.
He appealed for the continued cooperation of traditional rulers in maintaining a peaceful environment for contractors handling federal road projects across the state. Kolawole also urged the monarch to help sensitise residents against encroaching on road setbacks and disposing of waste in waterways, warning that such activities obstruct road construction and drainage systems.
Several members of the Olubadan-in-Council attended the meeting, including the Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Abimbola Ajibola; the Otun Balogun, Oba Kolawole Adegbola; the Osi Olubadan, Oba Abiodun Kola-Daisi; the Ashipa Olubadan, Oba Salawudeen Amidu Ajibade; the Ashipa Balogun, Oba Dauda Abiodun Azees; and the Ekerin Balogun, Oba Akeem Mobolaji Adewoyin.
