Oyo State’s government has formally commenced a transformative reconstruction and rehabilitation project on the crucial 30-kilometre stretch linking Okaka Junction, Otu, Igbojaye, and the Kunle Afolayan (KAP) Film Village in Komu, Itesiwaju Local Government Area. This major infrastructure intervention, boasting a cost of ₦26.48 billion, underscores the administration’s commitment to rural development, tourism, and the creative economy.
Background: Why This Road Matters
1. Cultural & Creative Significance
The road connects local communities with the KAP Film Village — a growing hub for Nigeria’s creative industry. The founder, celebrated filmmaker Kunle Afolayan, hailed the move, calling the road “a corridor of possibility” not just for filmmakers, but for farmers, creatives, and residents.
2. Economic and Rural Development
Beyond its appeal to filmmakers, the upgraded road is poised to enhance rural commerce: improving access for agricultural produce, facilitating smoother movement of goods, and enabling better access to schools and social services.
3. Political Commitment
Governor Seyi Makinde, during a public luncheon marking Hijrah 1447, reiterated his administration’s determination to “finish strong” by delivering landmark infrastructure before the end of the term.
Scope & Details of the Project
Length & Cost: The road project spans 30 km, with a budget allocation of ₦26.48 billion for reconstruction/rehabilitation and associated bridges.
Bridges: Included in the plan are bridge constructions over the Otu and Ofiki Rivers, enhancing connectivity and resilience during rainy seasons.
Timeline: The government has set an 18-month completion window for the project.
Approval Process: The Oyo State Executive Council formally approved the project, marking it as a key infrastructural priority.
Strategic Implications
1. Tourism Growth
By improving access to the KAP Film Village and resort, the road paves the way for increased tourism. During the commissioning of the film village, Governor Makinde had already pledged to support local infrastructure — including the road — to make the site more accessible.
2. Creative Industry Investment
A seamless link to the KAP Film Village is likely to attract both local and international filmmakers, production crews, and creative talent. Kunle Afolayan’s appreciation of the project signals confidence that this will be more than just a filming destination — but a full-fledged creative ecosystem.
3. Rural Livelihoods and Mobility
The improved road network will significantly benefit local communities by reducing travel time, cutting transport costs, and encouraging economic participation in the broader state economy.
4. Sustainable Administration
With less than two years to go in his term, Governor Makinde has emphasized his desire to ensure no abandoned or uncompleted mega projects. The 30 km road is part of his administration’s strategy to leave a lasting infrastructural legacy.
Voices from the Ground
Governor Seyi Makinde used the announcement occasion to urge citizens to offer prayers and constructive feedback, emphasizing that his government is keen on delivering “landmark projects” before the end of his tenure.
Kunle Afolayan, the filmmaker behind the film village, expressed his gratitude publicly, noting that the improved infrastructure will enhance access and generate socio-economic benefits for the region.
Broader Context
This road rehabilitation is part of a larger ₦114 billion infrastructure package recently approved by the Oyo State Executive Council.
Other approved infrastructure works include the dualisation of major Ibadan roads and high-capacity motorways, highlighting a clear strategic tilt toward long-term, sustainable development.
The launch of the 30 km Okaka–Otu–Igbojaye–KAP Film Village Road reconstruction is more than a civil engineering project — it is a strategic investment in Oyo State’s creative economy, tourism potential, and rural prosperity. At ₦26.4 billion, the 18-month project lays a foundation not just for smoother travel, but for economic revitalization in neglected parts of the state. As Governor Makinde and Kunle Afolayan envision it, this is a “corridor of possibility” — one that unites filmmakers, farmers, and local communities in a shared future.
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