The Oyo State Executive Council has approved N100.79 billion for the construction of bridges, interchanges, clearing of bush along Ibadan circular road project and purchase of two security surveillance aircraft.
The state Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday in Ibadan.
He said N83.03 billion of the amount is for the construction of bridges, interchanges, and site clearance along the Northeast and Southwest segments of the 110km Rashidi Ladoja Circular Road project, particularly near Molarere, Odo-Oba, and the Abiola Ajimobi Technical University axis.
“The government plans to complete 72km of the project before the end of the current administration in 2027,” he said.
According to Oyelade, ₦7.76 billion is for the purchase of two Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) aircraft to strengthen security across the state.
He siad the aircraft, DA 42 MNG models, will be equipped with advanced surveillance equipment capable of detecting threats from various altitudes.
According to him, the decision was aimed at addressing ongoing security concerns, including illegal mining and kidnapping, particularly in Oyo’s expansive rural areas.
He further explained that the aircraft will support the operations of the Amotekun Corps and other security agencies, saying it will enhance their ability to detect and neutralize threats hidden in remote locations.
The Commissioner noted that the DA 42 aircraft were chosen over helicopters due to lower maintenance costs, easy access to spare parts, and compatibility with the Nigerian Air Force’s existing fleet.
Oyelade emphasized that while Oyo enjoys relatively better security compared to other states, the government remains committed to proactive measures to prevent any escalation.
“Further infrastructure approvals include ₦2.33 billion for the asphaltic improvement of Secretariat Road, Trans-Amusement Park–UI–Sango Road, and Obafemi Awolowo Stadium Road.
“Another ₦6.8 billion will be used to finalize the reconstruction of the Mobil–Oluyole Industrial Estate road network.
“The Council also endorsed a direct intervention strategy in the operations and maintenance of the “Light-Up Oyo” solar project.
“A sum of ₦595 million has been approved for this purpose, with an additional ₦190 million allocated monthly for its upkeep,” he stated.
Oyelade also highlighted that Oyo’s Amotekun corps leads the Southwest region in terms of personnel strength, vehicles, and compensation.
“The corps currently has 2,500 staff, 181 vehicles, and 450 motorcycles, with the lowest-paid officer earning ₦116,000 per month.
“These comprehensive approvals reflect the state government’s continued focus on security, infrastructure development, and service delivery,” the statement said. (vitalnewsngr.com)
