…Says taxes will fuel economic growth, not frivolities
By Sodiq Adelakun
In a major step to ease traffic congestion and improve connectivity, Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Tuesday inaugurated a new network of upgraded roads in Ikoyi, situated in the Eti-Osa Local Government Area of the state.
The project is part of the administration’s ongoing efforts to enhance mobility, boost productivity, and drive Lagos’ economic growth.
He said the upgrading and rehabilitation of the network of roads in Ikoyi reflects his administration’s commitment to transforming Ikoyi into a model district that not only enhances the quality of life for its residents but also strengthens its role as a driver of Lagos’ economic prosperity.
The network of roads comprise Oyinkan Abayomi, Femi Okunnu, Macpherson, Ilabere, Ilu, Inupa, and Kuramo. The road network has a combined length of 5.90 km with the construction of drains and cover slabs serving as walkways, the installation of 80 mm, 45 Mpa interlocking stones, and the provision of streetlights and road signage.
The upgrading and rehabilitation of the network of roads have transformed the road network in Ikoyi, enhancing connectivity with Victoria Island, Osborne Road, and the Third Mainland Bridge while ensuring the area is no longer plagued by flooding.
Speaking during the formal commissioning of the Ikoyi network of roads—Phase II, held at Ilabere Road by Macpherson, Governor Sanwo-Olu said the roads would not only enhance mobility but also catalyse economic growth, improve productivity, and make Lagos more competitive globally.
He said, “Our administration’s THEMES+ Agenda placed transportation and traffic management as a critical priority. We understood that the provision of world-class road infrastructure would not only enhance mobility but also catalyse economic growth, improve productivity, and make Lagos more competitive globally.
“Since the inception of our administration, we have devoted ourselves to rehabilitating, upgrading, and in some cases, reconstructing roads across all five divisions of the state. These efforts are guided by our commitment to creating seamless access within and between communities, thereby reducing travel time and enhancing productivity.”
Speaking on why his administration embarked on the upgrading and rehabilitation of the roads, Governor Sanwo-Olu said, “Ikoyi, renowned as a hub of economic activity and the property capital of Lagos, has been central to our development agenda. Recognising its strategic importance, we launched the Ikoyi Urban Regeneration Initiative in July 2020—a comprehensive effort designed to tackle persistent flooding, streamline traffic flow, and upgrade vital road networks. This initiative reflects our commitment to transforming Ikoyi into a model district that not only enhances the quality of life for its residents but also strengthens its role as a driver of Lagos’ economic prosperity.
“Phase 1 of this initiative was completed in June 2021, and today, we are delighted to commission Phase 2, which encompasses the rehabilitation and upgrading of seven strategically important roads: Oyinkan Abayomi, Femi Okunnu, Macpherson, Ilabere, Ilu, Inupa, and Kuramo Roads. These projects have transformed the road network in Ikoyi, enhancing connectivity with Victoria Island, Osborne Road, and the Third Mainland Bridge while ensuring the area is no longer plagued by flooding.
“These roads are more than just pathways; they are lifelines for economic activity and community well-being. The improved road infrastructure has reduced travel times, minimised disruption caused by flooding, and boosted the property and business value of Ikoyi. These upgrades also contribute to creating jobs and fostering economic stability across the state.”
He assured residents that the taxes they pay will be judiciously used for productive ventures.
The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to utilizing public funds for infrastructure projects that will enhance residents’ lives and boost Lagos’ global competitiveness.
In his address, Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasised the importance of transportation infrastructure to the success of any economy, describing it as the backbone of socio-economic development.
He acknowledged the challenges posed by traffic congestion and flooding, which have historically hindered the city’s productivity.
Meanwhile, he said the State Government is committed to working with Residents’ Associations and Community Development Associations to establish sustainable maintenance strategies, noting that “through these partnerships, we can extend the lifespan of these roads, reduce the occurrence of road damage, and prevent infrastructure theft.”
He said, “Infrastructure requires collective responsibility. As we celebrate the completion of these roads, we must also acknowledge the importance of proper maintenance. This responsibility does not rest solely with the government but also with the communities that benefit from these projects.
“I urge all residents to take ownership of these projects. Let us refrain from actions that could undermine their durability, such as indiscriminate dumping of waste into drainage systems or illegal parking on roadways. These roads were built with taxpayers’ money—your money—and maintaining them ensures that resources can be channeled into other communities for similar developments.
“Let us work together to protect what we have built. By doing so, we not only safeguard today’s investments but also secure the future for generations to come.”
Speaking earlier, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Infrastructure, Engr. Olufemi Daramola, said each road plays a crucial role in decongesting traffic and improving access across Ikoyi, known for its residential, commercial and governmental significance.
He said, “This road network is part of a series of urban regeneration projects in Ikoyi, aligned with the THEMES+ Agenda development plan of the current administration. This network of roads complements the previously commissioned Phase I, which included Milverton, MacDonald, Lateef Jakande Avenue, Thompson Avenue, Reeve and Onilegbale Roads.
“Under the visionary leadership of Mr. Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, the Lagos State Government is focused on creating sustainable, modern infrastructure to improve mobility, reduce travel time and enhance the quality of life for Lagosians.”
Also speaking, the Senator, representing Lagos Central Senatorial District, Senator Wasiu Sanni-Eshinlokun; the Majority Leader of Lagos State House of Assembly, representing Eti-Osa I Constituency, Hon. Noheem Adams; the Chairman House Committee on Works and Infrastructure, Hon. Desmond Elliot and other speakers commended Governor Sanwo-Olu on the inauguration of the roads and other iconic infrastructure projects in Lagos State