Ekiti approves N12bn for road, housing projects

The Ekiti State Government has approved over N12bn for road construction, housing, and agricultural projects.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Information, Taiwo Olatunbosun, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday in Ado Ekiti, noting that the approvals were among the major decisions reached at the State Executive Council meeting held on Wednesday.

According to him, the council awarded a N7.3bn contract for the rehabilitation of the Ikogosi–Ipole–Efon Alaaye Road. The project, he said, was aimed at “easing the hardship of residents, boosting socio-economic activities in the area, and enhancing the security of lives and property.”

He explained that the rehabilitation works would include clearing, earthworks, construction of concrete drains, scarification, pavement, and laying of asphalt. The project is scheduled for completion within 24 months.

The council also awarded a N3.87bn contract for the construction of aviation staff quarters at the Ekiti State Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport, Ado-Ekiti.

Olatunbosun said the quarters would be purpose-built and located within the airport’s external perimeter fence in line with standard industry practice across Nigeria.

The facility, to be constructed by Messrs CCECC Nigeria Limited, is designed to optimise operational efficiency, enhance airport security, and reduce both transit time and transportation costs associated with commuting from GRA to the airport.

The proposed staff quarters will comprise 40 residential units, including 32 self-contained apartments for junior and middle cadre officers, six one-bedroom apartments for senior staff, and two two-bedroom apartments for management staff.

The project scope also includes external infrastructure, car parking lots, and the installation of a simple direct flame incinerator to serve as a solid waste management system for the entire airport. It is expected to be completed in four months.

In addition, the SEC approved N638.38m for the procurement of furniture and equipment for newly constructed dormitories under the “Bring Back Our Youths to Agriculture” programme.

Olatunbosun said the approval was intended to make the new residences fully habitable for participants in the agricultural scheme.