In a significant move to boost rural development and economic growth, the Oyo State Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (Oyo RAAMP) has signed a contract agreement worth N16.27 billion for the construction of 68 kilometers of rural roads.
The contract signing ceremony, held at the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development in Ibadan, marked a major milestone in the project’s phase one intervention.
Five construction companies, including Dephhanny’s Venture Limited, CGC Nigeria Limited, Coastline Engineering Limited, Lopek Engineering and Construction Limited, and E.A.A Engineering Limited, were awarded contracts to undertake the project.
According to Olasunkanmi Olaleye, Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, the project aims to upgrade rural roads, improve agricultural marketing, and promote economic growth in Oyo State.
The commissioner emphasized that the project will have a positive impact on the lives of rural communities, farmers, and traders, as well as market hubs, reducing post-harvest losses of agricultural products.
The project will cover five local government areas, including Oyo West, Iseyin, Ido, Oluyole, ATISBO, and Oriire.
The roads to be constructed include Fashola Farm settlement road networks, Oloko Oyo Junction- Ikere Junction, Alako-Idiya-Batake- Olowa Farm settlement, Adebayo-Alata-Aba Oje, Okudi-Oyada road, and Tewure-Ila junction road.
Abosede Owoeye, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, welcomed the project, stating that it aligns with the present government’s vision to support farmers and enhance food security.
She thanked the Federal Government and development partners, including the World Bank and French Development Agency, for their support.
Adeola Ekundayo, Oyo State Project Coordinator, Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project, urged the contractors to cooperate with stakeholders and adhere to the project’s implementation manual.
Shan Jingwu, a representative of CGC Construction company, commended Oyo RAAMP for its transparency in the selection process and promised to deliver quality work.
The project is expected to promote economic growth, improve livelihoods, and enhance food security in Oyo State. With the signing of the contract agreement, Oyo State is one step closer to achieving its development goals.
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