Governor of Lagos, Mr Babajide Sanwo-olu, has urged landlords and land owners in Ifako-Ijaye Local Government Area not to increase house rent and land prices following the inauguration of newly constructed Abiola – Onijemo link bridge.
The governor gave the advice on Monday in Lagos during the unveiling of the link road with bridge in Abiola, Onijemo communities.
The governor went further to appeal to the landlords to let the people, especially residents enjoy the benefits of the new road.
By heeding the advice, the governor said the road will lead to improvement of economic benefits to them and their businesses.
The construction of Abiola-Onijemo Link Road with a bridge in Ifako-Ijaiye, the governor said the projects aligned with the THEMES+ agenda of his administration, which prioritises traffic management and transportation to enhance the welfare and productivity of Lago’s prices s residents.
He said the new road would significantly enhance vehicular movement, reduce travel times, and stimulate local commerce.
The governor enjoined the residents to see the new link bridge as their project and, therefore safeguard it.
“This is a public asset. It is your asset, you need to safeguard it, protect it, and don’t misuse it.,” he said.
Special Adviser on Infrastructure, Mr Olufemi Daramola, said the construction of the link road with bridge has reflected the commitment of the state governor to infrastructure renewal, urban development, and enhanced connectivity for the benefit of all Lagosians. This project is an essential element of the state’s infrastructure master plan, aligned with the T.H.E.M.E.S.+ agenda, particularly in transportation and traffic management.
Going the memory lane, the special adviser said: “The journey of this project has been long and transformative. Initially, this link between communities relied on a simple wooden bridge, a precarious structure that presented both health and safety risks for those who used it. Back in March 2012, the project was initially awarded but was later terminated due to non-performance by the original contractor.
“However, In May 2022, under the visionary leadership of Mr. Governor and Mr. Deputy Governor, the project was re-awarded, demonstrating this administration’s commitment to ensuring that no project is abandoned.”
The Abiola-Onijemo Link Road with Bridge, he said was more than just a physical connection, describing it as “lifeline for multiple communities.”
“The road spans a swampy terrain, connecting College Road through Ajayi Street in Ogba to Aruna, Obawole, and Iju-Ishaga. Communities in this area, historically divided by a 25-meter swamp belt.
“Today, to the Glory of God and a deep sense of fulfillment, this wooden bridge has evolved into a durable and safe concrete bridge that opens a new chapter of improved connectivity, safety, and economic growth.
“This vital connection will significantly enhance vehicular movement, reduce travel times and stimulate local commerce,” he said.
The project covers a total length of 643 meters, including a 135-meter reinforced concrete bridge with retaining walls.
The infrastructure features 7.3-meter-wide carriageways, alongside slip roads, walkways, and solar-powered street lighting representing state-of-the-art infrastructure tailored to meet the needs of a growing population.
Additionally, the drainage system addresses long-standing flooding challenges, safeguarding the surrounding communities from the adverse effects of poor water management.
Member of the Lagos House of Assembly, representing Ifako-Ijaye constituency 1, Hon. Adewale Temitope, expressed gratitude to the governor for the construction of the project and many others in the area.
He added that the completion and inauguration of the road with link bridge has brought to an end the suffering of the people in the community.
Chairman, Ifako Ijaye Local Government Area, Hon. Usman Hamzat, lauded Sanwo-Olu for several projects being undertaken in the area.
He described the construction of Abiola-Onijemo as a “transformative project” that will open access to other communities and bridge the gap between the isolated communities.
He urged residents to take responsibility for the maintenance of the link road with bridge project.
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