By Lukman Olabiyi
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Friday unveiled five more new roads in Lagos Mainland, Somolu and Kosofe Local Government areas of the state, urging the residents to take good care of the upgraded roads, to ensure that they stand the test of time.
The governor in his address at the formal commissioning of the rehabilitation of St. Finbarr’s College Road , Asani, Tijani Ashogbon , Jagunmolu, Shogbamu and Diya streets.
Governor Sanwo-Olu who had in the previous day commissioned Oba Dosumu Street, Oduduwa Way, Oduduwa Crescent, Sobo Arobiodu, and Sasegbon streets said the areas covered by the projects hold cultural, educational and historical significance for Lagos State.
He pointed out that St Finbarr’s Road was built by the British during the colonial period and served as a route for their administrators and missionaries.
He said, “We have kicked off this year on a note of project commissioning, and this is how we intend to carry on throughout the year. Just yesterday, I signed the 2025 Appropriation Bill into law, paving the way for the implementation of a budget that is now in excess of N3 trillion.
“Lagosians should therefore expect an immediate scaling-up of the focus on infrastructure; the completion of existing projects and commencement of work on new ones. No part of the state will be left out; we will continue to ensure that this development is equitably distributed.’’
Governor Sanwo-Olu who had earlier sworn in the new chairman and members of the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) urged the residents to participate actively in the local government election to be conducted by the commission.
‘’ You all know that LASIEC has the responsibility to conduct elections at the local government level. Begin to prepare to prepare yourselves, because we have said to them to prepare for a free fair local government at the grassroot level.’’
Earlier, the Special Adviser to Lagos State governor on Infrastructure, Engineer Olufemi Daramola said the projects do not only represent a critical part of the state’s infrastructure master plan but aligned with the THEMES agenda, particularly in transportation and traffic management.
‘’Spanning 4.7 kilometres with an average width of 73 metres dual carriageway, the rehabilitated St. Finbarr’s College Road/Asani/Tijani Ashogbon/Jagunmolu/Shogbamu/ Diya Streets is a major arterial road that connects three local government areas and serves as a lifeline to educational institutions, residential communities, and commercial hubs in the axis.
‘’This strategic arterial road is immersed in history and cultural significance. It connects renowned institutions like the University of Lagos, St. Finbarr’s College, and the Federal College of Education, Bariga Waterfront Jetty through the earlier completed Haje Road alongside a thriving network of small and medium enterprises, vibrant residential neighbourhoods and the iconic headquarters of Deeper Life Church.
‘’Before rehabilitation, the road was way past its service life, with inadequate drainage and increased traffic, resulting in significant inconveniences to residents, business and commuters. Recognizing its importance, the government embarked on this transformative project to restore functionality, reduce travel time, improve aesthetics, and ensure long-term durability,’’ he said.