Aare Afe Babalola, founder and Chancellor of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), has expressed serious concern over the deteriorating condition of the federal road leading to Ekiti State Airport.
Speaking through ABUAD Vice Chancellor, Prof. Smaranda Olarinde, at a press conference ahead of the university’s 13th Convocation Ceremony, Babalola highlighted the slow progress of work on the Ado–Ijan–Ikare federal road, which also connects to Ondo State. He described the state of the highway as distressing, warning that continued neglect threatens both lives and economic activity in the region.
“The road has become a nightmare for motorists, students, and staff. Despite repeated promises, progress remains painfully slow,” Babalola noted. He urged the federal government to prioritize the rehabilitation of this vital route, pointing out that ABUAD hosts students from all 36 states, as well as international students, making the road crucial for education, travel, and commerce.
Acknowledging the efforts of Ekiti State under Governor Biodun Oyebanji, Babalola praised the state for its peaceful environment and strong support for education. He emphasized that the university’s ranking No. 84 globally, No. 3 in Africa, and No. 1 in Nigeria for four consecutive years underscores the importance of maintaining safe and reliable access to its campus.
Babalola further linked the road’s rehabilitation to the broader socio-economic benefits for Ekiti State and neighboring regions. He reminded the public of the recognition he received from His Imperial Majesty, The Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adeyemo Adejugbe Aladesanmi III, who declared October 18 as Afe Babalola Day in 2024. However, he noted that the poor condition of the access road casts a shadow over celebrations planned for 2025.
“Repairing this road is not just about honoring a living legend; it is essential for the safety of citizens, the growth of our state, and the continued success of institutions like ABUAD and the Federal Polytechnic Ado-Ekiti,” he concluded.
