The Executive Chairman, Olorunsogo Local Government, Hon. Qozeem Olayanju, has flagged-off the reconstruction of the Jelenke Bridge, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to delivering impactful infrastructure projects that improve the quality of life of residents.
The project when completed, is expected to address the long-standing challenges faced by residents due to the deteriorating condition of the bridge, and restore seamless movement for farmers, traders, students, motorists, and other road users, who depend on the route for their daily activities.
Speaking during the flag-off of the project, Hon. Olayanju, popularly called ‘Orelope’, said the project reflects his administration’s determination to provide responsive and people-centered governance.
“Our administration remains committed to identifying and addressing the pressing needs of our people. The reconstruction of Jelenke Bridge is not just about building a bridge; it is about connecting communities, supporting agriculture, boosting commerce, and ensuring that our residents can move safely without unnecessary hardship,” the Chairman stated.
He added that the project forms part of his broader development agenda aimed at strengthening rural infrastructure and accelerating socio-economic growth across the Olorunsogo Local Government.
“We promised to deliver the dividends of democracy, and we are steadily fulfilling that promise through projects that have direct and lasting impacts on our people. We will continue to prioritize initiatives that promote development, improve accessibility, and create opportunities for economic prosperity.” He noted.
The Chairman appreciated Governor Seyi Makinde for creating an enabling environment for local governments to implement developmental projects that positively impact grassroots communities.
While giving his account of stewardship, Hon. Olayanju reeled out some of his achievements and projects since inception.
1. Extension of access road from the local government secretariat.
2. Extension of electricity to Keso Community.
3. Installation of motorized boreholes in 5 communities.
4. Ongoing construction of a block of three modern classrooms, an administrative office, two standard toilets, and a motorized solar-powered borehole around Community Primary School, Olopoto.
5. Cash empowerment for traders, palliative for widows, and providing relief for the vulnerable.
6. Distribution of cars to revered traditional Chiefs.
7. Presentation of a N100,000 cash award to the overall best student of Ajimobi Technical University for 2025, Oladejo Elizabeth Ayodele, a proud indigene of the marble city, Igbeti.
8. Installation of a new transformer for homes, businesses, and public spaces.
9. Commissioning of the newly completed Elerugba Primary Health Care Center, Labe compound, Igbeti.
11. Sponsored 3 constituents to attend the prestigious KAP Film and Television Academy.
12. Offered full scholarships to 6 indigent students at Abiola Ajimobi Technical University.
13. Grading of roads in Olorunsogo local government, including the 22km Apata-Alaje road and other roads in the community.
14. Flagged off a volleyball court, named to immortalize the late vice chairmanship candidate of the council, Hon. Adetoro Ebenezer Adegbite.
15. Empowered 200 women with each receiving 20,000 naira, totaling N4million.
16. Renovation of Olorunsogo local government Viewing Center and DSS office.
17. Construction of 2 Amotekun Outposts.
18. Distribution of BAJAJ motorcycles to security agencies.
19. Installation of solar street lights at the secretariat road.
20. Repair of earth-moving equipment: bulldozer, excavator, lowbed truck, and grader.
Meanwhile, residents of the council and beneficiaries have described the reconstruction of the bridge as a timely intervention that will significantly improve transportation and economic activities in the area.
A farmer from the community, Adewale Adebayo, expressed appreciation to the local government for responding to the people’s concerns
“For a long time, transporting our farm produce across this bridge was difficult and risky. This reconstruction has brought great relief to farmers and everyone who uses this road. We are grateful to the Chairman for listening to our cries.”
Similarly, a trader, Mrs. Kafayat Bello, noted that the improved bridge would enhance commercial activities and reduce transportation challenges.
“This project will make life easier for traders and residents. We can now move our goods more safely and conveniently. It is a project that will benefit everyone.”
Community leaders also commended Hon. Olayanju’s administration for its focus on infrastructure development, describing the bridge as a critical asset that will strengthen connectivity among communities and contribute to sustainable development.
The reconstruction of the Jelenke Bridge is one of several people-oriented projects being undertaken by the Olorunsogo Local Government under the able leadership of Hon. Qozeem Olayanju (Orelope), reflecting the administration’s commitment to infrastructure renewal, improved service delivery, and grassroots development.
