The Ondo State Government has announced plans to ban roadside trading in Akure as part of measures to ease the growing traffic congestion in the state capital.
The Special Adviser on Transport to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Mr. Gbenga Omole, disclosed this on Thursday after defending the 2026 budget proposal for his office.
“The vision of this government is to make Akure a smart city, and I can assure you that in the next two weeks you will begin to see our activities,” he said. “We are going to clear all traders from the roads because the number of travellers and commuters entering the state will increase in the coming weeks. People will be returning home, and we do not want them stuck in gridlock. We want to ensure traffic flows smoothly.”
Omole added that the state government is working with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and the police to guarantee free movement before, during, and after the yuletide season.
He also revealed that plans have been concluded to build ultramodern motor parks across the three central districts, equipped with 21st-century facilities to enhance transport efficiency and boost the state’s internally generated revenue.
Similarly, the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Mr. Sunday Olajide, said the 2026 budget would drive urban renewal across major cities in the state. “You should expect a lot from us in 2026 because the starting point is to develop a comprehensive master plan for Akure,” he said.
