The Kwara State Government, yesterday, said it has earmarked N200 million as counterpart fund in the 2018 budget for the construction of over 300 kilometres of rural roads across the state.
The state Governor, Alhaji Abdulfatah Ahmed stated this in Esie, Irepodun Local Government Area, at the 30th coronation celebration of the Elesie of Esie, Oba Yakubu Mohammed Babalola.
According to him, the counterpart fund would enable the state government access N1.83 billion from the World Bank to build more roads in rural communities.
Ahmed, who was represented by the Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Goke Bamidele, said his government would accord priority to rural road projects next year.
“Permit me to use this medium to reiterate my administration’s commitment to the people of Kwara, including those living in rural communities.
“In line with our commitment to rural development, the state government will place more attention on the construction of rural roads in the coming year,” he said.
Ahmed, however, urged the traditional institution in the state to assist the government in the maintenance and sustenance of peace and harmony in rural areas.
He also said that his administration would give priority to the welfare of monarchs in order to ensure enduring peace in local communities.
In his remarks, Oba Babalola enjoined his subjects on peaceful co-existence and to always support agenda that will propel the community.
Highlight of the occasion was the conferment of the title of Otunba and Yeye-Otunba of Esie on the Special Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture and Rural Water Support Services, Chief Anu Ibiwoye, and his wife, Funmi.
