During the official flag-off ceremony for the construction and dualisation of the Akure/Ado road linking Ondo and Ekiti states in Akure, Fashola criticised those criticising the government for awarding contracts towards the end of its tenure.
He dismissed such talks as 'juvenile' and emphasised the importance of completing ongoing infrastructure projects.
"People are saying why are we (Buhari government) still awarding contracts when we have just a few days to go. Should we stop this road now and wait for the next government? No," Fashola asserted.
He further explained that the delay in awarding the project was due to the necessary processes required by the new procurement law. The construction and dualisation of the Akure/Ado road are estimated to cost N90 billion and are expected to be completed within two years.
Fashola also highlighted that the project would be financed through the federal government's Tax Credit Policy, which aims to fund critical infrastructure in the country. He commended the Minister of State for Transport, Mr Ademola Adegoroye, for his relentless efforts in ensuring the road was awarded.
"Barely under a year, I know how many memoranda he (Adegoroye) had presented and he always chases me with a telephone on this road. In fact, he told me he would not be able to return home after the expiration of his tenure if the road is not awarded," Fashola added.
The construction and dualisation of the Akure/Ado road are expected to enhance transportation and promote economic activities between Ondo and Ekiti states. Governor Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State and Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State expressed their appreciation for the project, emphasising its positive impact on the socioeconomic development of both states.
The Deji of Akure Kingdom, Oba Aladelusi Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade, and Senator Ayo Akinyelure were among the dignitaries who witnessed the flag-off ceremony. The project was awarded to Samchase Nigeria Limited and Kopek Construction Limited.