President Bola Tinubu on Friday approved the rehabilitation of Ilesa/Ife/Ibadan dual carriage expressways for ease of transportation.

Speaking at the coronation of 41st Owa Obokun of Ijesa land, Oba Adesuyi Clement Haastrup, Ajimoko III, Tinubu noted that his administration is committed to supporting aspirations of communities, including Ijesaland.

He said, ?In line with ongoing federal initiatives in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and agriculture, we are working to uplift lives and expand opportunities across the nation. We recognize the resourcefulness of this land and will continue to partner with traditional institutions to ensure that development is inclusive and enduring.?

The president, who was represented by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, congratulated Oba Haastrup and expressed confidence that under his reign, the cultural splendour of Ijesaland will not only be preserved but elevated to new heights.

As part of the Renewed Hope Agenda, Oyetola reaffirmed President Tinubu?s administration?s commitment to grassroots development, announcing that the President has ordered the release of an intervention fund for the rehabilitation of the Ilesa-Ife-Ibadan expressway-which is critical to the economic vitality of Osun and neighbouring states.

Also, Governor Ademola Adeleke in his address described the new Owa as a gentleman with loyalty and patriotism as his trademarks.

He recalled, ?As the Deputy Governor to my late brother, the first executive governor of Osun State, late Senator Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke, our new Owa Adimula, demonstrated absolute loyalty and supportive backing. As a businessman, he climbed to the top of the ladder in his sector, making him one of the most successful business executives in Nigeria.?

He reaffirmed his commitment towards the overall development of Ijesaland as he disclosed that University of Ilesa is now offering over 50 courses which are accredited.

?I am glad to announce that the General Hospital, Ilesa has been approved as the Teaching Hospital for the University of Ilesa. This will boost Ilesa as a centre of medical excellence.

?We are focussed on the upgrading of Ilesa to a modern city. Hence, we are almost completing the over 12 kilometers Ereja Square-Brewery Junction dual carriageway. This landmark project for the first time is opening up Ilesa for business and pleasure.?

Oba Haastrup appreciated all the dignitaries at the programme and all those that attended, saying ?You all sacrifice for me to be here today, I am so glad and elated to witness today.?

The dignitaries at the coronation are former president Olusegun Obasanjo, former Vice-President, Atiku Abubakar, ex-VP, Namadi Sambo, Ex-Osun governor, Olagunsoye Oyinlola, Osun East Senator, Senator Francis Fadahunsi among others.

Also, monarchs including, Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Laoye Ghandi, Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed Akanbi, Owaloko of Iloko-Ijesa, Oba Akeem Ogungbangbe, Aare Onakakanfo, Gani Adams among others were also at the venue.

Others are the Executive Director, Marine and Operations, Engr. Olalekan Badmus, former Speaker of Osun State House of Assembly and other cabinet members of Osun state government were present at the coronation. (The Nation)

?Owa Obokun of Ijesa land, Oba Adesuyi Clement Haastrup alongside the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola

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