Ogun State Governor Flags off Reconstruction of Abeokuta-Ifo-Ota-Lagos Expressway
A significant development unfolded yesterday as Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, officially commenced the reconstruction of the 70-kilometre Abeokuta-Ifo-Ota-Lagos Expressway. With a promise to complete the project within 18 months, Governor Abiodun sees the road’s reconstruction as crucial not only for Ogun State but also for Lagos State and the nation. This expressway serves as a major thoroughfare for people traveling to neighboring countries.
Originating from a conception in 2019, the road’s reconstruction faced challenges in obtaining approval from the federal government to release it to the Ogun State Government. However, relentless efforts have finally paved the way for the project to materialize.
Governor Abiodun expressed his gratitude to Nigeria’s President, His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for granting approval and releasing the Abeokuta/Ifo/Sango/Abule-Egba Road to Ogun State for reconstruction. The governor also extended his appreciation to the Federal Minister of Works, Mr. Dave Umahi, for his support and cooperation in securing the necessary approvals.
Describing the road as the second busiest in the country after the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, Governor Abiodun highlighted the road’s economic significance to Ogun State and the nation. Several industrial hubs rely on this road, including the Lafarge Cement Factory, Ile-Ise Awo, various schools, and higher institutions. The road also serves as a critical artery connecting the densely populated communities along its corridor and facilitating trade and economic activities.
To expedite the project’s completion, the reconstruction will be divided into five zones: Ota/Ifo, Papalanto, Ewekoro/Itori, Abeokuta, and a team assigned to palliative works to ensure smooth traffic during construction. Each zone covers a distance of approximately 15km, and the entire project is projected to be finished in eighteen months.
Governor Abiodun underlined that the road’s reconstruction would not only create employment opportunities for both skilled and unskilled workers but also enhance security and provide a conducive environment for factories and businesses to thrive. He called upon the public to support and cooperate with the contractor in the execution of the project and invited the private sector to participate in the state’s socio-economic development initiatives.
The Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Ade Akinsanya, reiterated the state government’s commitment to ensuring the timely completion of the 70-kilometre road, which traverses four local government areas. The Olu of Ilaro and Paramount Ruler of Yewaland, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, lauded the present administration for addressing the long-standing neglect of the road. Additionally, the All Progressives Congress (APC) State Chairman, Chief Yemi Sanusi, hailed the road’s reconstruction as a significant democratic dividend and urged road users to utilize the improved road responsibly.
On behalf of the company entrusted with the rehabilitation project, Mr. Edmond Maley, representing Craneburg, expressed their gratitude to the government and assured the delivery of quality work. He called for the cooperation of the people and effective traffic management for a smooth operation. Oba Abdulfatai Akamo, the Olu of Itori, highlighted the poor condition of the road over the past 12 years due to the neglect of previous administrations at both state and federal levels, stressing the relief the reconstruction will bring to motorists.