Lagos commences payment of compensation to Mosafejo traders

The Lagos State government said it had commenced payment of compensation to traders at Mosafejo Market, reiterating that plans to regenerate Oshodi and transform it into a world-class Central Business District (CBD) was on course.

Oshodi, in its present state, currently accommodates about one million pedestrians daily with about 100,000 passengers equally accessing the 13 parks scattered within the area daily, while 76 per cent of the area is dedicated to transport and related activities, causing traffic congestion and other environmental issues.

Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Abiola Anifowose, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday, saying the payment of the compensation and redevelopment of Oshodi into a standard transport interchange and a more befitting market were in line with the agreement between the state government, market leaders and traders.

According to Anifowose, who spoke during a stakeholders’ meeting attended by executives of the various associations and sectional leaders as well as traders, prompt payment of compensation will assist the affected shops owners to get alternative shops and maintain their businesses.

Speaking further, the commissioner said the Oshodi Transport Interchange, when completed, would have facilities such as international bus terminals, shopping/business Malls, Local Bus Interchange, theme parks, car parks and other facilities that would add to a modern city lifestyle.

According to him, the total area of the development of the Oshodi CBD master plan which is about 70,000 square metres will also accommodate shopping malls adjacent to the bus terminals

“The Oshodi Transport Interchange Project has commenced and upon completion, the project would be of immense benefit to all Lagosians, especially major stakeholders, including traders, commuters, transport unions, transport operators as well as shop owners,” he said.

Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Urban Development, Mrs. Yetunde Onabule, said: “Redevelopment of Oshodi will greatly enhance security of life and property in the neighbourhood.”

A representative of the contractors, Planet Projects Limited, while confirming the progress of work on the interchange, said that about 400 piles representing about 50 per cent of the foundation works had been completed, adding that work on the skywalk would commence by the end of January.

He assured that the project was on schedule despite the high volume of vehicular and human traffic in Oshodi.