By Modupe Gbadeyanka
Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development in Lagos State, Mr Adebowale Akinsanya, has revealed that the state government would soon begin construction of a fly-over at Pen Cinema, Agege.
Speaking on Friday where he represented Governor Akinwunmi Ambode at a stakeholders’ meeting on the construction of the bridge, the Commissioner explained that the project was part of efforts to ease traffic on Lagos roads as well as improve connectivity of various communities across the state.
He further explained that the vision of the present administration was to make Lagos State more prosperous with a robust economy, as such the state government was determined to improve and rehabilitate existing boundary roads within the communities of Aboru, Ikola, Amikanle and Ipaja to provide more access to link neighbouring States as well as improve socio-economic activities.
Mr Akinsanya also hinted that the state government was proposing to build a direct access road from Opebi Road to link Ikorodu Road with a future provision to extend the link to the 3rd Mainland Bridge.
According to him, “The essence of the reconstruction of these roads is essentially aimed at resolving the perennial traffic gridlocks in Lagos which is expected to impact positively on the health of road users, reduce travel time and enhance the economic situation in the country.”
In his remarks, Permanent Secretary Ministry of Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Olujimi Hotonu stressed that the proposed flyover will cut across the intersections of Old Abeokuta road with Oba Ogunji Road and Agunbiade Street in the Agege Local Government and will include drains on both sides of service lanes, alternative routes and flyover, provision of walkways, street lighting and traffic light signalization.
While pointing out that the state government had made provision of alternative routes to ameliorate the inconveniences the construction might cause those plying the road, he informed that the project is expected to be delivered by November 2018.
He, therefore, solicited for the full cooperation, support and understanding of residents, motorists and commuters of the road, adding that upon completion the project would reduce traffic grid lock and travel time, reduce vehicle maintenance and transportation cost, enhance the safety of road users and improve socio-economic activities of the area.
Stakeholders present at the forum held at LASU Museum Premises, Agege included traditional rulers, community leaders and members, politicians, youths, market men and women among others.
Adedapo Adesanya