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By Katherine Diakpomere
The Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) has completed the rehabilitation of failed sections along the Old Abeokuta Motor Road, particularly around the Ile Zik axis in Ikeja, bringing relief to motorists and residents who have endured years of hardship due to the poor condition of the road.
For several years, the road, which once served as a major route linking Lagos and Abeokuta, had deteriorated significantly. Motorists plying the route frequently complained about the deplorable condition of the road, which not only caused discomfort but also exposed road users to security threats and the risk of accidents.
In response to the situation, FERMA awarded a contract to F & A Integrated Services Limited to rehabilitate the affected sections of the road and address the drainage challenges responsible for its deterioration.
The Federal Roads Maintenance Engineer in charge of the Lagos II West Field Office, Charles Avishigh, said the intervention became necessary due to the poor state of that particular section of the road and the persistent flooding that continually washed away sections of the carriageway.
According to him, the project involved the construction of new open-lined drains to improve water flow and reduce the impact of flooding on the roadway.
He explained that the intervention aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government and the vision of FERMA’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Chukwuemeka Agbasi, aimed at preserving critical road infrastructure across the country.
“We are trying our best to ensure that all federal roads are motorable. It is part of our mandate to monitor, maintain and ensure that these critical road networks are safe, trafficable and in good condition to support national economic growth,” he said.
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Avishigh noted that the repairs were essential to preserving the structural integrity of the roadway, while improving the safety and comfort of commuters and other road users.
Some road users who spoke on the completed project commended FERMA for the intervention, describing the road as one that had remained in a deplorable condition for many years.
One motorist expressed appreciation for the rehabilitation, saying the road had become difficult to use due to its poor state.
“Using this road was often very difficult because of its condition. However, with the work FERMA has carried out, the road will now benefit many people and significantly reduce the risk of accidents. We also appeal to the Federal Government to provide more funding to FERMA to enable the agency to continue its good work,” the motorist said.
The rehabilitation works included the desilting of the existing lined drains, construction of new lined drains, excavation of unsuitable materials, provision of gravel filter layers and crushed stone base, application of prime coat, laying and compaction of asphaltic concrete binder and wearing courses, as well as lane marking to enhance structural stability and road safety.
Avishigh further stated that evidence from across Nigeria had shown that improved road infrastructure contributes to higher household incomes, better access to social services and more inclusive economic development.
He reaffirmed FERMA’s commitment to maintaining critical road infrastructure nationwide so as to ensure safer, more efficient and sustainable transportation for all Nigerians.
