By Oluwaseun Adebolu
The Ekiti State Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (EKRAAMP) has confirmed the disbursement of over 70 million naira in compensation to individuals whose properties were affected by ongoing road construction projects across the state.
This move is part of the state government’s commitment to ensuring that due process is followed, in line with the policies of the World Bank, which require compensation to be fully paid before the commencement of construction work.
Mr. Sunday Adunmo, the project coordinator, speaking in Ado Ekiti, reiterated that the compensation precedes the launch of the 13 road construction projects under the RAAMP initiative.
He emphasized that the process was transparent and in compliance with international standards, ensuring that all affected individuals received their payments promptly.
The compensation covers landowners and others who had to give up property to make way for the road projects, which are aimed at improving rural access and boosting agricultural markets in the state.
Adunmo expressed satisfaction with the pace of work being carried out by the contractors. According to him, significant progress has been made on the various construction sites, with the work moving ahead according to schedule.
He assured that the projects would be completed within the stipulated timelines and the roads would meet the required standards, enhancing connectivity and easing transportation for farmers and residents in rural areas.
To ensure the highest quality of work and accountability, Mr. Adunmo disclosed that both the federal and state governments have put in place a robust monitoring mechanism.
A monitoring unit, led by Ekiti State Governor Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has been constituted to oversee the entire project. This unit will regularly assess the quality of work done, ensuring contractors adhere to the set specifications and deliver projects that meet international standards.
Additionally, the state government is enforcing the local content law, which mandates that contractors prioritize hiring local labor and using locally sourced materials where possible.
This move not only boosts local employment but also contributes to the development of Ekiti State’s economy by involving the local workforce in key infrastructure projects. It reflects the government’s broader goal of ensuring that the benefits of these projects extend beyond improved infrastructure, fostering economic growth and community development.
Mr. Adunmo further emphasized the long-term impact of the RAAMP project on Ekiti’s rural communities, noting that the improved road infrastructure will ease access to markets for agricultural products, thus promoting economic growth and improving the livelihood of farmers and rural dwellers.
He said that as the project moves forward, stakeholders are optimistic that the road constructions will bring a positive transformation to the agricultural landscape of Ekiti State, enhancing its role as a key contributor to food security and economic prosperity in Nigeria.