A new chapter in Oyo State’s urban transportation development unfolded on Wednesday as former President Olusegun Aremu Obasanjo, GCFR, officially commissioned the Ibadan Central Bus Terminal at Iwo Road. The modern transport facility, executed under the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde, represents a major step toward achieving a more organized, efficient, and people-oriented transport system in the state capital.
In his remarks, Chief Obasanjo commended Governor Makinde for his developmental strides across Oyo State, describing him as “a good son doing excellently well.” He urged residents of Ibadan to maintain the facility and use it responsibly, emphasizing that public infrastructure should be preserved for the benefit of future generations.
“The people of Ibadan must put this terminal to good use and not destroy it,” Obasanjo advised. “The governor is doing well; he should continue in this direction.”
Governor Seyi Makinde, while addressing the gathering, described the new terminal as more than just a transport hub, calling it “the gateway to Ibadan.”
“Iwo Road is the first impression of our city, and with the completion and commissioning of this terminal, we are signaling order, modernity, and progress,” the governor stated.
“With this commissioning, we have now completed all four major bus terminals in Ibadan — Challenge, Ojoo, New Ife Road, and Iwo Road. The next administration will extend this model to other cities in the state.”
Governor Makinde recalled that the project began in May 2020, with an initial twelve-month completion target. However, he explained that the global pandemic and other challenges delayed the process.
“Today, we celebrate our determination and commitment to progress. What we are witnessing here is proof that promises made can indeed become promises kept,” he said.
In her goodwill message, Chief (Mrs.) Onikepo Akande, a former Minister of Industry, praised the governor for his visionary leadership and consistency in delivering projects that impact lives positively.
The commissioning ceremony was graced by royal fathers, political dignitaries, top government officials, and residents who turned out in large numbers to witness what many described as a historic moment for the city of Ibadan.
The completion of the Iwo Road Central Bus Terminal brings to a close the first phase of the state’s integrated transport infrastructure, designed to ease movement, reduce traffic congestion, and project Ibadan as a modern and organized metropolis.
