Jare Olukotun
Residents across Ijede and Igbogbo/Baiyeku Local Council Development Areas of Ikorodu Federal Constituency, have expressed their happiness to the the Federal Government’s approval of the ₦15.7 billion Pacific – Igbe Laara Road project, a landmark infrastructure intervention expected to transform transportation, commerce and socioeconomic activities across a vast section of the federal constituency.
The massive project was facilitated by Rep. Babajimi Benson, representative, Ikorodu Federal Constituency and Chairman, House Committee on Defence.
The approval, granted by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, forms part of the administration’s ongoing nationwide investment in strategic road infrastructure aimed at improving connectivity, stimulating economic growth and delivering the dividends of the Renewed Hope Agenda to communities across Nigeria.
The Pacific – Igbe Laara Road project is regarded by the residents of Ikorodu, especially, those in Ijede and Igbogbo/Baiyeku LCDAs, as one of the most consequential infrastructure projects approved for the constituency in recent years, with the capacity to unlock development across more than 150 Community Development Associations (CDAs) within Ijede and Igbogbo/Baiyeku LCDAs.
Upon completion, the road is expected to open new economic corridors, improve access between communities, reduce travel time, encourage investment and provide seamless connectivity to other parts of Ikorodu Division.
The approval has also been viewed by many stakeholders as another testament to the productive synergy between the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the sustained legislative advocacy of the Member representing Ikorodu Federal Constituency, Rep. Babajimi Benson, whose consistent engagement with relevant federal authorities has continued to attract critical infrastructure projects to the constituency.
Hon. Motunrayo Gbadebo -Alogba, Executive Chairman, Ijede LCDAs commenting on the approval by the FEC, said that when completed the road would accelerate the social and economic development of Ijede and its environs.
“I am very happy for the intervention of Hon. Babajimi Benson to construct the road. I often called his attention to it, but he always tells me that I always ask for something big (laughter).
“Recall that I was the first to speak when the road project was approved which THE IMPACT published, thanking him for the gesture. Once again, thanks to Hon. Babajimi Benson for this intervention. It will accelerate developments in Ijede LCDA, even beyond our own imagination.”
Former Chairman of the Community Development Committee (CDC), Ijede LCDA, Mr. Rotimi Ayoku-Owolawi, also speaking said that the project is bound to open up a lot of communities.
“I was in tears of joy waking up to read about the award of the ₦15.7 billion Pacific – Igbe Laara Road approved by the Federal Government. This is a project that will open up over 150 CDAs within Ijede and Igbogbo LCDAs, thereby connecting us to Constituency 1,” he said.
He praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the landmark project while also commending Rep. Babajimi Benson for what he described as his uncommon passion for equitable development and prosperity across Ikorodu Federal Constituency.
According to him, the federal lawmaker has consistently demonstrated remarkable vision by pursuing projects that directly improve the quality of life of residents, irrespective of political affiliations or geographical location.
Since assuming office, Rep. Babajimi Benson has maintained a strong focus on attracting federal presence to Ikorodu Federal Constituency through sustained engagement with relevant ministries, departments and agencies of government.
His efforts have complemented the Federal Government’s commitment to expanding infrastructure across the country, resulting in numerous interventions spanning road construction, education, healthcare, ICT, market development, rural electrification, solar street lighting and several other community-focused projects.
Residents and community leaders believe the Pacific – Igbe Laara Road will improve significantly the means and mode of transportation within the riverine axis of Ikorodu, reduce the cost of doing business, stimulate commercial activities, attract private investment, increase property values and enhance the overall quality of life for thousands of people living within the benefiting communities.
Across the constituency, expressions of appreciation have continued to pour in for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the strategic road project under the Renewed Hope Agenda, while Rep. Babajimi Benson has also been commended for his sustained commitment to ensuring that Ikorodu Federal Constituency continues to benefit from critical federal infrastructure.
For many residents, the approval is not only a major infrastructural breakthrough but another clear indication that purposeful leadership, effective representation and responsive governance can work together to deliver lasting development to the grassroots.
