By Abimbola Bamgbose
President Bola Tinubu has officially launched the reconstruction and expansion of the Lagos-Ibadan Dual Carriageway ,Section 1, and Section 1 of the Lagos-Sagamu Expressway, reinforcing the federal government’s commitment to infrastructure development.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony in Sagamu, Ogun State, President Tinubu, represented by Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun, announced that the project is expected to be completed within 24 months.
The initiative will include the construction of underpasses at Kara, Wawa, Magboro, and Arepo, as well as flyover bridges at Kilometer 16, near the Mountain of Fire Ministries ,MFM, and Kilometer 37 at Makun, Sagamu.
Additionally, pedestrian bridges will be installed at key locations, including Arepo, Magboro, NASFAT, Deeper Life, and Redemption Camp.
The president also disclosed that the government would commence the construction of the remaining 60-kilometer stretch of the Sagamu-Benin Expressway from the Sagamu Interchange to Itele.
Highlighting the strategic significance of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, President Tinubu described it as the busiest highway in Nigeria and a crucial link between Lagos, the nation’s commercial hub and 17 southern states.
Emphasizing the fundamental role of road infrastructure in economic growth, mobility, and quality of life, President Tinubu acknowledged the prolonged neglect of the expressway, which has resulted in numerous accidents and fatalities.
He assured that the project’s completion would significantly reduce travel time, improve efficiency and productivity, enhance safety, and facilitate ease of doing business across the country.
The inclusion of the Sagamu-Ore Expressway in this phase further demonstrates the administration’s commitment to ensuring Nigeria’s road networks meet international standards and support economic expansion and industrial development.
Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, elaborated on the scope of the project, explaining that it includes key infrastructural improvements, such as underpasses at Magboro, Warewa, Arepo, Sagamu, and Iperu, covering a total of 24 kilometers.
He further outlined the subsequent phase, which will extend from Iperu to Ijebu-Ode, spanning an additional 48 kilometers.
Senator Umahi emphasized financial accountability, directing that no contractor should receive payment without a valid Advanced Payment Guarantee ,APG certificate and Performance Bond.
Chairman of the House Committee on Works, Hon. Akin Alabi, reaffirmed the House of Representatives’ commitment to supporting the Ministry of Works in ensuring Nigerians benefit from well-maintained road networks.
He stressed that the project would have a far-reaching economic impact beyond Ogun State.
Ogun State Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Mr Ade Akinsanya, expressed appreciation for the inclusion of pedestrian bridges in the project.
He assured that the state government would collaborate closely with contractors and federal officials to ensure timely project completion.
The Akarigbo of Remoland, Oba Babatunde Ajayi, called for additional flyovers at the Sagamu junction and the police divisional junction, along with the establishment of a fire station to respond to emergencies along the expressway.