By Esther Agbo
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, affirmed on Sunday that the rainy season would not impede the progress of ongoing critical road projects in the state.
Sanwo-Olu emphasized that many road projects are nearing completion and will significantly alleviate traffic congestion upon their conclusion.
In a post on X, the governor mentioned that state officials conducted an inspection tour of various road projects, including the Opebi-Mende-Ojota Link Bridge and connecting arterial roads. This bridge aims to address significant traffic issues and provide alternative routes for motorists traveling from Toyin, Allen, Opebi to Ojota, benefiting those commuting from Maryland to Ikeja and nearby areas.
The team also inspected additional vital ongoing projects including the construction of the Abiola-Onijemo Link Road with a bridge, the Ikeja Urban Regeneration Project, the Arowojobe Link Bridge and Approach Road in Maryland, and the Agidi Demurin and Church Street Network in the Kosofe Local Government Area.
Despite challenges posed by the weather, contractors are diligently working to meet project deadlines. Progress reports indicate that completion rates for key projects are as follows: Arowojobe Link Bridge and Road at 70%, St Finbarrs Road at 70%, Abiola-Onijemo Link Road with Bridge at 80%, Ikeja GRA regeneration project at 89%, and Opebi-Mende Link Bridge and roads at 85%.
The Governor stated, “These projects reflect our commitment to delivering top-notch infrastructure and driving economic growth for the benefit of all residents.”
A 2023 study by the Danne Institute for Research revealed that Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial hub, loses an astounding N4 trillion annually due to severe traffic congestion. The study, titled ‘Behavioural Causes of Traffic Congestion in Lagos,’ funded by the Bank of Industry and Africa Finance Corporation, highlighted the urgent need for action to mitigate the economic and social impacts.