Oyo RAAMP Signs ₦16.27bn Contract for 68km Rural Roads Construction

 By Dansu Peter 

The Oyo State Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (Oyo RAAMP) has finalized a contract agreement valued at N16,273,711,608.09 for the construction of approximately 68 kilometers of rural roads under phase one of its intervention project.  

The signing ceremony, held at the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development in Ibadan, was supervised by the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Barrister Olasunkanmi Olaleye. Five construction firms—Dephhanny's Venture Limited, Messrs CGC Nigeria Limited, Messrs Coastline Engineering Limited, Messrs Lopek Engineering and Construction Limited, and Messrs E.A.A Engineering Limited—secured the contracts for this crucial infrastructure project.  

The roads, cutting across five local government areas, include:  

• - Fashola Farm Settlement Road Networks in Oyo West  
• - Oloko Oyo Junction-Ikere Junction in Iseyin Local Government  
• - Alako-Idiya-Batake-Olowa Farm Settlement in Ido Local Government  
• - Adebayo-Alata-Aba Oje Road in Oluyole Local Government  
• - Okudi-Oyada Road in Atisbo Local Government  
• - Tewure-Ila Junction Road in Oriire Local Government  

Addressing stakeholders, Barrister Olaleye emphasized the project's importance in upgrading rural roads, improving agricultural marketing, and fostering economic growth in the state. He noted that the initiative would significantly enhance the lives of rural dwellers, farmers, traders, and market hubs while reducing post-harvest losses.  

The Commissioner urged the contractors to ensure high-quality delivery, highlighting the competitive bidding process that led to their selection.  

In her welcome address, the Ministry's Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Abosede Owoeye, reiterated that the project's goals align with Governor Seyi Makinde's vision of enhancing food security and supporting farmers. She commended the Federal Government, the World Bank, and the French Development Agency for their support.  

Mrs. Owoeye described the contract signing as a step toward achieving economic growth and improving livelihoods in Oyo State.  

Engr. Adeola Ekundayo, the Oyo State Project Coordinator for RAAMP, urged contractors to cooperate with stakeholders, including grievance redress committees established for each road project.  

Speaking on behalf of the contractors, Mr. Shan Jingwu of CGC Nigeria Limited praised the transparency of the selection process and pledged professionalism in executing the projects.  

The initiative marks another milestone in the state's efforts to enhance rural infrastructure, promote agricultural development, and stimulate economic activities.