Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has assured taxpayers that their contributions will be invested in meaningful and productive projects aimed at boosting the state’s economic growth and the welfare of its residents.
Speaking during the commissioning of the second phase of upgraded roads in the Eti-Osa Local Government Area, the governor emphasized his administration’s commitment to using public funds responsibly.
Sanwo-Olu highlighted the vital role that transportation infrastructure plays in the success of any thriving economy. “In Lagos State, we understand that efficient, reliable, and sustainable transportation networks are the backbone of our social and economic life,” he said.
Since the beginning of his tenure, Sanwo-Olu’s administration has focused on addressing transportation and traffic management challenges, which he described as major barriers to realizing the vision of a “Greater Lagos.” According to him, the problems of traffic congestion and flooding, which lead to significant lost man-hours, were issues that could no longer be ignored.
He pointed out that under the THEMES+ Agenda, transportation and road infrastructure have been prioritized as essential elements to improve mobility, economic productivity, and global competitiveness for the state.
Sanwo-Olu emphasized the significance of the Ikoyi Urban Regeneration Initiative, launched in July 2020, to address flooding, ease traffic flow, and upgrade vital road networks. He stated that the initiative would not only improve the quality of life for Ikoyi residents but also bolster the area’s role as a key economic hub for the state.
“These roads are more than just pathways; they are lifelines for economic activity and community well-being,” Sanwo-Olu said, explaining that the improved infrastructure would reduce travel times, mitigate flooding disruptions, and increase the value of businesses and properties in the area.
The governor also urged residents to take ownership of these projects by protecting them from actions that could undermine their sustainability, such as improper waste disposal and illegal parking.
In his remarks, the Special Adviser on Infrastructure Olufemi Daramola, highlighted the scope of the project, noting that the newly commissioned roads complement the previously completed Phase 1 upgrades in Ikoyi. The network spans 5.9 kilometers and includes roads such as Milverton, MacDonald, Lateef Jakande Avenue, Thompson Avenue, Reeve, and Onilegbale Roads.
Daramola praised the high standards of construction and the focus on quality assurance during the rehabilitation of these roads, which are designed to meet international benchmarks for durability, safety, and efficiency.
The efforts, he concluded, align with the vision of creating sustainable infrastructure that will reduce congestion, enhance mobility, and improve overall quality of life for Lagosians.