The new contractor handling the Oyo-Ogbomoso dual carriageway project, JRB Construction Company Ltd, has assured that the project will be completed before the official September 2026 deadline.
Speaking to journalists at the project site in Ogbomoso, the company’s Technical Project Manager, Joseph Onche, said the contract was awarded to the firm in March, and work commenced immediately.
He explained that while the entire 52-kilometre road was originally awarded to another firm, JRB Construction took over to complete the remaining 36 kilometres within an 18-month timeframe.
“We mobilised to the site as soon as the contract was awarded in March. We’ve now spent three months on the project, and we are confident of delivering ahead of schedule,” he stated.
Onche added that the company had conducted extensive investigations to assess the current state of the road, which has enabled them to tackle critical challenges effectively.
He further assured Nigerians that indigenous construction firms are fully capable of delivering high-quality road infrastructure.
“Though, there could be one or more challenges from people who don’t believe in us, but we believe in ourselves. And we have the capacity and knowledge to deliver, we have professional and qualified engineers with us to deliver this project effectively.”
Also, the JRB Project Manager, Engr. Ajmal Khan assured people of Ogbomoso and all motorists plying the Oyo-Ogbomoso routes that his company would deliver quality and durable roads.
Speaking on the quality of work done on the Oyo-Ogbomoso project, the Federal Controller of Works in Oyo State, Engr. Victor Aina confirmed that the contractor has been working according to specification so far.
According to Aina, the project is being executed in strict compliance with the approved engineering standards, technical specifications and best practices as prescribed by the Federal Ministry of Works.
“All construction materials of the project, including lateritic sub-base, undergo rigorous laboratory testing and on-site verification before approval.
“These procedures are guided by the Federal Ministry of Works Standards and Specifications and the Standard Conditions of Contract.
“The Honourable Minister of Works, Sen. David Umahi, remains determined and committed to delivering infrastructure that guarantees quality, safety, durability and value for taxpayers’ money.
“Oyo-Ogbomoso section of the Ibadan-Ilorin Road is a crucial road in South Western Nigeria, serving as a link between the South Western and Northern regions of the country.
“The Federal Government, on Feb. 20, terminated the 52 kilometres Oyo–Ogbomoso dual carriage way contract, which had been awarded to Reynolds Construction Company (RCC).
“The decision, according to the Minister of Works, Sen. David Umahi, was the commitment of President Bola Tinubu towards the quick completion of the project.
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“The President is committed to easing the difficulties faced by haulage trailers transporting goods and agricultural products from the North to Lagos, as well as the challenges experienced by road users.”
Meanwhile, some motorists plying the road have lauded the Federal Government for its decision to complete the project, which had been delayed for too long.
Two commercial drivers, Sola Olugbode and Azeez Muritala, appreciated President Tinubu for taking action that would lead to the completion of the project.
According to Olugbode, the old road, which has been in a deplorable condition for a long time, has claimed an uncountable number of lives as a result of auto crashes.
Muritala said the completion of the road would enhance smooth vehicular movement and ease challenges facing traders transporting goods from North to South and vice versa.
Mr Jude Alabi and Isiaka Adeleke, who are commercial motorcycle operators, expressed happiness over the ongoing project, saying its completion would put an end to accidents on the road.