Lagos re-opens Odo Iya Alaro Bridge

By Sodiq Adelakun

The Lagos State Government on Monday has reopened the Odo Iya Alaro Bridge after 54 days of closure for rehabilitation.

The project, which began on July 22, 2024, was completed in two phases, with the Ojota-bound side finished on August 23, 2024, and the Maryland-bound section completed on September 13, 2024.

Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, who led the reopening ceremony, expressed concern over the theft of manhole covers in the state.

He warned that anyone caught stealing manhole covers would face prosecution.

“Maintenance of infrastructure is not a challenge in Lagos. We’ve repaired expansion joints and replaced stolen manholes with fibre-reinforced covers,” Hamzat said.

Hamzat emphasised the Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration’s focus on road and bridge infrastructure to reduce travel time, boost interconnectivity, provide better riding surfaces, and eliminate traffic gridlock.

He noted that the government prioritises safety, with many pedestrian bridges identified for routine maintenance.

Special Adviser on Infrastructure, Engr. Olufemi Daramola, attributed the project’s timely completion to the government’s commitment to alleviating motorists’ suffering.

The reopened bridge is expected to bring relief to commuters, easing vehicular movements along the axis.

The government has switched to using fibre-reinforced materials instead of steel to combat the theft of manhole covers.

Hamzat said, “To tackle infrastructure abuse, we’ve resolved to address security threats and misuse of roads and bridges head-on.”