President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to enhancing Nigeria’s transportation network, emphasizing its role in economic growth and national development.
On Saturday, Tinubu flagged off the completed and ongoing 24km section of the Lagos-Ibadan dual carriageway, along with the upcoming 48km expansion under Phase Two of the project. The flagged-off sections include Lagos-Sagamu in Lagos and Ogun states.
Represented by Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, Tinubu stressed the significance of road infrastructure in national development. “There is no doubt that road infrastructure plays a fundamental role in the socio-economic development of any nation,” he said. He also cited renowned architect Norman Foster, stating, “Infrastructure is much more than roads and bridges; it is the foundation that sustains economic growth, facilitates mobility, and enhances the quality of life.”
The President outlined his administration’s focus on connecting rural roads to urban centres, commercial hubs, and industrial corridors to harness the country’s economic potential. “This strategic approach aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda. We are committed to rebuilding, expanding, and modernizing our national road networks, railways, and airports, all vital to economic prosperity,” Tinubu added.
He commended the Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, for his dedication, calling him “the actualiser of our vision on road infrastructure” and “a right fit for purpose.”
Senator Umahi explained that the Lagos-Ibadan expansion project includes key components such as the Ogun River, Marlboro underpass, Wawa underpass, Arepo underpass, Sagamu-Iperu (24km), RCC Church interchange, two flyovers, and five pedestrian bridges.
According to Umahi, the next phase of the project covers a 48km stretch from Iperu to Ijebu Ode along the Sagamu-Ore axis. However, he acknowledged procurement delays and assured that work would commence within 30 days following the Bureau of Public Procurement’s approval.
“The second leg of Phase Two, Section Two of Lagos-Ibadan, was wrongly procured. I directed its resubmission to the BPP, and in 30 days, work will commence. The governor of Ogun, representing the President, will flag off both phases, even though Phase Two is not fully procured. In 15 days, the project will be awarded,” Umahi explained.
He reassured Nigerians that the full 96km expansion, comprising both completed and upcoming sections, remains on track and that palliative measures had been implemented to ensure smoother travel during construction.
Umahi thanked the Ogun State Governor and other stakeholders for their support, emphasizing the project’s national significance in boosting mobility, trade, and economic growth.