The Oyo State Government has announced plans to redesign and upgrade the congested Iyaganku Junction in Ibadan, following persistent traffic gridlock that has turned the axis into a daily nightmare for commuters, especially during evening peak hours.

The Chairman of the Oyo State Project Performance and Monitoring Agency and Executive Assistant to the Governor on Project Monitoring, Engineer Muftau Open Salawu, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday, noting that the intervention is aimed at easing traffic flow between key routes linking Ring Road, Jericho and Dugbe.

Open Salawu described the Alesinloye–Iyaganku corridor as one of the most chaotic traffic points in the state capital, stressing that commuters who ply the route daily are familiar with the frustration and delays associated with the junction.

“The traffic situation at Alesinloye and Iyaganku Junction, particularly in the evenings, has become unbearable. We have seen similar challenges in places like Gate, Agodi and the UI Junction before the state government intervened and fixed them,” he said.

According to him, the proposed upgrade will ensure seamless movement for motorists travelling from Jericho to Ring Road and those heading from Iyaganku towards Dugbe, adding that the project is part of the government’s broader commitment to urban renewal and efficient transportation.

Open Salawu acknowledged that infrastructure upgrades often come with short-term inconveniences but insisted that the long-term benefits far outweigh the disruptions.

“Upgrading infrastructure is a necessary investment for long-term economic growth, competitiveness and improved quality of life. Modernising transportation networks is critical to improving efficiency, supporting industrial activities and preparing our cities for future challenges,” he stated.

The project monitoring boss also cautioned developers across the state to ensure they obtain proper building plan approvals before embarking on construction projects, warning that unregulated developments often worsen urban congestion and safety risks.

“Building plan approval is not optional. It ensures compliance with safety standards, zoning regulations and building codes, while protecting public welfare and investments,” Salawu said.

He further called on residents to support government initiatives, stressing that building a functional and liveable city is a collective responsibility.

“We all desire a functional city. Achieving that goal requires active citizen participation and support to translate vision into reality,” he added. (Inside Oyo)

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