The Ekiti State Government has approved the sum of N15.18 billion for the full reconstruction of the Ifaki–Esure–Ilomu–Eyio–Awo–Igede Ekiti road, as part of its sustained efforts to improve transportation infrastructure across the state.
The commissioner for Information, Taiwo Olatunbosun in a statement on Sunday, said the approval formed part of the decisions reached during the State Executive Committee presided over by Governor Biodun Oyebanji.
Olatunbosun added that the approval, which covers the reconstruction of the strategic road corridor, underscores the commitment of the administration to easing vehicular movement, opening up adjoining communities and boosting socio-economic activities in the six communities.
According to the statement, “the contract for the project has been approved for award to CCECC Nigeria Limited. The contractor is to receive 60 per cent of the contract sum as mobilisation fee upon the submission of an Advance Payment Guarantee (APG) or an Insurance Bond, in line with established public procurement guidelines.”
Olatunbosun said, The road, which links several communities, is expected to significantly enhance connectivity, facilitate the movement of people and goods, and improve access to economic and social services when completed.
“The reconstruction project has been scheduled for completion within a period of 24 months, after which residents and road users are expected to enjoy safer and more efficient transportation along the corridor.”
The commissioner explained that the approval aligns with its broader agenda of infrastructural development aimed at driving growth, improving living standards and promoting inclusive development across all parts of the state.
The statement also revealed that the state government has commenced the Nigeria For Women Programme Scale-Up (NFWP-SU), a World Bank-supported initiative aimed at empowering rural women economically.
The commissioner for women affairs and social development, Peju Babafemi who disclosed this during the meeting, said, ” the programme which focuses on forming Women Affinity Groups (WAGs), providing financial literacy, business skills, savings and credit training, and supporting livelihood collectives.”
The statement disclosed that the programme is targeting women aged 18 and above who engaged in subsistence-level of activities in three pilot local government areas of Efon (Ekiti Central), Moba (Ekiti North), and Gbonyin/Ayekire (Ekiti South).
” The project is backed by $3 million from the International Development Association (IDA) and N450 million from the State Government.
” The scheme is a reaffirmation of Governor Oyebanji administration’s commitment to women’s economic empowerment as a key driver for sustainable development, with the creation of lasting opportunities for women aimed at improving livelihoods across the State,” Olatunbosun said.
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