Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Lagos State governor, has pledged to address the infrastructural challenges confronting riverine communities in Ojo and Oriade local government areas through the construction of bridges to connect them to the mainland.
The governor made the commitment on Tuesday while commissioning four newly constructed roads in Oriade Local Council Development Area (LCDA) and Amuwo Odofin.
He noted that some of the newly commissioned roads lead to jetties, underscoring his administration’s resolve to transform access to riverine areas by constructing bridges.
The commissioned roads include Adio Mumuni Bamus Road, which links to Ijegun Jetty, Irede Road connecting to Irede Jetty, Old Naval Road, and Old Ojo Road.
“We are considering constructing bridges to link the riverine communities. We will evaluate the alignment that will best connect these areas and change the landscape entirely,” Sanwo-Olu said.
The governor also revealed plans to assess the most effective route for the proposed bridges, aiming to significantly enhance mobility for residents.
Read also: Sanwo-Olu inspects largest general hospital coming to Ojo
In addition to the road projects, Sanwo-Olu provided updates on the ongoing construction of the Ojo General Hospital. The facility, designed to be a multi-purpose specialist hospital equipped with modern technology and accommodation for medical personnel, is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving transportation infrastructure as a driver of economic growth in the area. He envisioned transforming Ojo and Oriade into thriving communities comparable to Victoria Island and Ikoyi.
Sanwo-Olu further announced the commencement of a project to develop 1,500 new shops in Iba Community, with 300 designated as lock-up shops to be prioritised for local residents. The initiative is a partnership with the Lagos State Development and Property Corporation (LSDPC), with funding already secured for completion.
Olufemi Daramola, the special adviser to the governor on infrastructure, highlighted the poor state of the roads prior to their rehabilitation, which had been caused by heavy truck traffic. He assured residents that the roads were upgraded with durable materials capable of withstanding such pressure.
Meanwhile, Mojisola Meranda, the Lagos State speaker, represented by Desmond Elliot, urged residents to take ownership of the new roads, ensuring proper maintenance and discouraging misuse, such as turning them into parking spaces.
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