The Obalufe of Ile-Ife, Osun State, Oba Idowu Adediwura, second-in-command to the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has commended Governor Ademola Adeleke for executing key infrastructural projects in the ancient town.

Oba Adediwura stated that the initiatives have helped preserve Ile-Ife’s cultural heritage and prevented the town from international embarrassment.

Speaking on Tuesday after a project inspection tour led by the Director of Highways, Moruf Ojebode, Oba Adediwura lamented that Ile-Ife had endured years of infrastructural neglect, which often embarrassed the cradle of the Yoruba race whenever foreign visitors arrived.

He praised the ongoing N14 billion flyover and 17 road projects initiated under Adeleke’s administration, noting that they had significantly improved access to cultural centers across the town.

According to the monarch, the projects would enhance the promotion of local culture and elevate Ile-Ife’s status as the historical origin of the Yoruba race.

He said, “It would be unfortunate for visitors from around the world, coming to their source, to see most roads in poor condition. It is very embarrassing. I want to commend Governor Adeleke for rescuing us from global embarrassment through the ongoing flyover and other township road projects.

“With good roads, our culture will be promoted in Ife. As we approach the Olojo festival in September and the Aje festival next week, tourists and worshippers will travel on improved roads.”

Ojebode revealed that the N14 billion flyover project is about 80 per cent complete and is expected to be delivered within record time.

He also listed completed roads to include Iredunmi–Oke Ijan, Oriyangi–St John, Manchester–Igboya, Olurin–Omi Okun, Ife City–Benediction Road, London Street–Iremo, Ogbingbin–Garage Isale, Agric–Opa Ife, Akinlalu Junction–Akinlalu Town, Magistrate Court–Itamerin Yakooyo, and AP Junction–Itasin Junction, Modakeke.

Other completed projects include Cele Road–Ajape Junction, Modakeke; RCM Road One, Alafia Ifetedo; Moore Babaakodi; and Osun State University Road, while work continues on Edunabon–Tonkere and Ayedaade roads.