Oyebanji’s Support Drives Major Rural Road Development in Ekiti

The World Bank-assisted Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP) has recorded major progress in Ekiti State, with over 130 kilometers of rural roads awarded for construction.

According to the State Project Coordinator, Hon. Sunday Adunmo, the support of Governor Biodun Oyebanji has been crucial in expanding road access across the state’s farming communities.

Adunmo explained that the RAAMP initiative, an upgrade of the earlier Rural Access Mobility Project, focuses on improving rural connectivity and market access for farmers. Unlike the previous phase, the current project not only constructs roads but also links them to markets, easing the transportation of agricultural produce from farms to urban centers.

So far, more than 40 kilometers of roads have been completed with asphalt, while others are at different stages of construction. Adunmo disclosed that commissioning will begin soon and continue until early next year, with about 18 new roads ready for inauguration. He said these roads have already started transforming communities, boosting school enrolment, reopening markets, and improving farmers’ income.

Communities such as Ikere, Agbado-Ekiti, Ilupeju-Ekiti, and Ikole are among the areas benefiting from the new road network. Adunmo noted that the once-isolated farming areas are now connected to markets, making it easier for farmers to move their goods and attract economic activity. He cited examples of roads where schools have witnessed increased enrolment and traders have resumed operations in once-abandoned markets.

Contrary to claims that the World Bank handles the projects independently, Adunmo clarified that the state government plays a major role. He said the programme is a partnership, not a grant, and the state provides 18 percent of the total cost as counterpart funding. The roads, though World Bank-assisted, are state projects funded through a repayable loan with minimal interest.

To ensure long-term sustainability, Ekiti State has established two agencies to maintain the roads and prevent deterioration. According to Adunmo, these agencies will step in promptly whenever any damage is detected to guarantee that the roads last for decades.

Reflecting on the journey of the project, Adunmo said the initiative began under former Governor Kayode Fayemi, but gained full traction under Governor Oyebanji. He revealed that Ekiti was not among the initial states selected for RAAMP but was later included after persistent efforts by both governors. He added that Oyebanji’s intervention ensured prompt payment of the counterpart funds and direct engagement with the World Bank to secure the state’s participation.

Adunmo also praised the governor’s commitment to development, describing him as “a homegrown leader with a clear passion for progress.” He said Ekiti recently won two out of five national awards among 19 participating states due to its performance under Oyebanji’s leadership.

Looking ahead, Adunmo revealed that more than 30 new road projects have been identified for the next phase, targeting over 1,000 kilometers of rural roads. He expressed confidence that by the next election season, many of the projects would be completed and commissioned, transforming rural mobility and strengthening the local economy.

He concluded that the administration’s efforts through RAAMP have set Ekiti on a path of inclusive development, where rural communities will no longer be cut off from the benefits of progress and modern infrastructure.