With upgraded equipment, Ekiti State’s Public Works is set to transform its asphalt production to meet both local and regional supply needs.
At an interactive session with BAO Media Centre, the Director General, Engr. Adewale Fagoyinbo proudly announced that Ekiti now produces the highest-quality asphalt in Southwest and will be able to meet domestic needs and even export to neighbouring states as the plant equipment are upgraded.
“Ekiti’s asphalt plant has become a game-changer,” Fagoyinbo said, noting that the venture saves costs and boosts durability, marking a bold step in the state’s infrastructural development.
Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s administration played a vital role by resuscitating the once-moribund agency through targeted funding.
“The Governor’s support has been instrumental. When I took office, he provided the funds to revive this agency, making it possible for us to set up our own asphalt plant,” Fagoyinbo said.
Located at the Old Ekiti Kete Park, along Iworoko Road in Ado-Ekiti, the plant’s current capacity stands at 20 tons per hour, producing up to 160 tons daily, a volume which is set to increase as equipment upgrades are rolled out.
With these improvements, Ekiti is gearing up to not only meet local infrastructure needs but also serve neighbouring states like Osun and Ondo.
Fagoyinbo highlighted the strategic pricing model that makes Ekiti’s asphalt better in price and quality. “Our asphalt costs ₦115,000 per ton, slightly undercutting the ₦120,000 market rate,” he explained.
“With this quality and pricing, we’re expecting buyers from across the region to come knocking, and it will be a strong revenue stream for Ekiti.”
He shared details about the new Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement which is bound to attract further investment.
“The PPP model we’re implementing is a major step forward,” he said. “Once it takes off, we’ll be producing at even lower costs, while the increased volume means we can generate more revenue for Ekiti.”
Fagoyinbo stressed the quality assurance measures in place, pointing out that the hot-mix asphalt produced at the plant is tailored for durability on intercity and township roads. The plant runs from 5 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, with strict adherence to safety standards, including caution signals and mandatory safety gear. “Safety is paramount. We maintain high standards to ensure a smooth operation,” he said.
Looking ahead, Fagoyinbo expressed optimism about the future of Ekiti’s asphalt industry, sharing that equipment hiring will also be offered at competitive rates.
“A bulldozer here goes for ₦190,000, lower than the ₦200,000 private rate. We’re prioritizing affordability for our people, and this has been extended to asphalt sales as well,” he added.
With strong support from the state government and a clear vision for growth, Ekiti is positioned to become a leading force in Nigeria’s asphalt production, setting the standard for quality, affordability, and job creation.