From Damola Adeloye, Ibadan
Oyo State Acting Governor, Abdulraheem Lawal on Monday paid an inspection visit to the ongoing Senator Rashidi Ladoja Circular Road and Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport, declaring that the airport would be ready within the next three weeks.
Describing them as legacy projects that underscore Governor Seyi Makinde’s commitment to build infrastructure that targets economic expansion, Lawal expressed satisfaction with the quality and pace of the projects.
He noted that from the assessment and opinion of experts, the international airport should be ready for take-off and landing in the next two or three weeks, while the first segment of the Circular Road will be ready in the next two to three months.
According to a statement made available to journalists Tuesday in Ibadan by his Chief Press Secretary, Pastor Sulaimon Olanrewaju, the acting governor declared that government would continue to engage the contractors so that they do not relax or rest on their oars, as the administration will continue to demonstrate commitment to the projects through adequate funding.
“We have legacy projects that are ongoing, the international airport and Ibadan Circular Road. First, we were at the international airport and we have attained about 75 -76 percent completion, meaning that in the next two or three weeks, the international airport will be ready, at least, for landing and take-off of aircrafts, which is the major accomplishment of that particular project.
“The other thing to be fixed is marking, which they described as runway dressing and then the instrument landing system so that aircrafts can take off and land at night.
“Then, they will do the window or wings of the runway, which will be fixed in no distant time. The main runway has been done, and we are satisfied with the work done.
“Now, this is the east wing of the circular road, which spans about 32.5km. Again, I must say that it is a legacy project that people will come into Oyo State to see and they will appreciate the efforts of the state government in fixing infrastructure.
“I dare say that we are satisfied with what we have seen. The contractors are doing the job in accordance with specifications, as well as speed and timing. We are hoping that the delivery of this project will come within the expected time frame,” he said.
On whether Ibadan Airport would be open for travellers attending the Olubadan’s coronation, the acting governor said the contractors would not be preempted, as they would advise on the usability of the facility.
He noted, however, that regular tests are being carried out to ensure that the runway meets international standards.
