The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved ₦427 billion for the reconstruction of the Ibadan–Ife–Ilesa road, a major highway linking key cities in southwestern Nigeria.
The announcement was made by Nigeria’s Minister of Works, David Umahi, following Wednesday’s FEC meeting chaired by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
According to the minister, the funding will cover 103 kilometers of dualized carriageway, with urgent attention given to sections of the road that have completely collapsed and are beyond rehabilitation. The reconstruction is expected to significantly improve road safety, reduce travel time, and boost economic activities along the busy corridor.
Project Background
Umahi explained that the road project was originally awarded by a previous administration but experienced very slow progress over the years.
He revealed that Oyo State had completed only five kilometres of the road, while the remaining 103 kilometres fall under the responsibility of the federal government.
Minister’s Statement
Speaking on the approval, Umahi said:
“Another one is the reconstruction of the Ibadan–Ife–Ilesa road. And this project is 108 kilometres.
So we got approved to do that project, you know, 103 kilometers by two, and that is 206 kilometers.
And the project was bid by five contractors for a total sum of ₦427 billion.”
Work to Begin Immediately
The Minister further confirmed that construction work will begin immediately on selected sections of the road, even as the government completes the full ratification process for all the contracts involved.
Once completed, the reconstructed highway will greatly improve transportation between major cities including:
Ibadan
Ile‑Ife
Ilesa
The project is expected to enhance regional connectivity, facilitate trade, and support economic growth across southwestern Nigeria.
