Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has named the newly completed Onyearugbulem-Shagari/Irese Road Flyover in Akure after elder statesman and Afenifere leader, Reuben Fasoranti, in recognition of his contributions to Yoruba unity, leadership and public service.
The announcement was made on Monday during the official commissioning ceremony of the strategic infrastructure project held in Akure, the Ondo State capital, with Vice President Kashim Shettima in attendance alongside top government officials, political leaders, traditional rulers and community stakeholders.
Governor Aiyedatiwa said the bridge, which will now be known as the “Reuben Fasoranti Flyover,” was dedicated to the respected Yoruba leader because of his decades of sacrifice, patriotism and commitment to the development of the South-West and Nigeria at large.
According to the governor, Fasoranti’s role in promoting democratic values, good governance and the collective interests of the Yoruba people made him deserving of the honour. He described the elder statesman as a symbol of integrity, courage and selfless leadership whose influence has continued to inspire generations of Nigerians.
The governor noted that the flyover project represented more than just physical infrastructure, saying it also reflected the administration’s determination to improve transportation, ease traffic congestion and stimulate economic activities within Akure and surrounding communities.
The Onyearugbulem-Shagari/Irese Road Flyover project was originally flagged off in July 2023 during the administration of the late former Governor Rotimi Akeredolu. The project was conceived as a strategic intervention to address persistent traffic bottlenecks along one of the busiest road corridors in the state capital.
The junction links several important parts of Akure, including residential districts, commercial centres and routes leading to neighbouring communities. Residents and motorists have long complained about gridlock and delays around the axis, especially during peak hours.
Speaking at the event, Aiyedatiwa said his administration remained committed to completing impactful projects initiated by previous governments, stressing that continuity in governance was necessary for sustainable development.
He praised the vision of the late Akeredolu administration for initiating the project and assured residents that more infrastructural interventions would be undertaken across the state to boost socio-economic growth and improve the quality of life of the people.
The governor added that the completion of the flyover would significantly reduce travel time for commuters while enhancing road safety and boosting commercial activities within Akure metropolis.
Vice President Shettima, who commissioned the project on behalf of the Federal Government, commended the Ondo State Government for prioritising infrastructure development despite prevailing economic challenges in the country.
He described infrastructure as a critical driver of economic transformation and national development, noting that investments in roads, bridges and transportation networks create opportunities for businesses, attract investors and improve the living conditions of citizens.
The Vice President also paid glowing tribute to Pa Fasoranti, describing him as one of Nigeria’s most respected nationalist voices and a leader whose commitment to justice, peace and democratic ideals remained exemplary.
Shettima said naming the flyover after the Afenifere leader was a fitting recognition of his lifelong service to the Yoruba nation and Nigeria as a whole.
In his remarks, Fasoranti expressed appreciation to the Ondo State Government for the honour bestowed on him.
The elder statesman said he was deeply humbled by the gesture and urged political leaders to continue working towards the unity, peace and progress of the country.
He also called on Nigerians to remain committed to nation-building and support efforts aimed at strengthening democratic institutions and improving governance at all levels.
Many residents who witnessed the commissioning ceremony described the project as a major achievement for the state government, expressing optimism that the new flyover would ease movement and reduce congestion within the capital city.
Political observers noted that the naming of the flyover after Fasoranti carried symbolic significance, particularly given the elder statesman’s long-standing influence in Yoruba socio-political affairs and his close relationship with successive leaders in the South-West region.
The event attracted a large crowd, including members of the state executive council, lawmakers, party leaders, traditional rulers, religious leaders and supporters who gathered to celebrate the completion of the landmark project.
The newly commissioned Reuben Fasoranti Flyover is expected to become one of the most recognisable infrastructure landmarks in Akure, serving as both a transportation asset and a tribute to one of the most prominent figures in Yoruba political history.
