Ambode: we’ll deliver Lagos/Badagry Road by 2019

 Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode yesterday said he was  committed to delivering the Lagos-Badagry Expressway expansion before end of 2019.

Speaking to reporters shortly after embarking on an inspection of projects, the governor said the project was a major economic catalyst for Lagos, which will boost economic activities and real estate value in the axis when completed.

“On the part of government, it is imperative that the project is accelerated and completed on schedule. It is a 10-lane expansion project with a provision for rail,” he said.

Ambode said although the project was planned up to Okokomaiko, his administration was close to giving it to a concessionaire, who is to extend the project from Okokomaiko to Seme Border.

“We believe that the contractor has done a good job here. We have given him the right-of-way and it is our belief that the one that has been awarded should be completed on schedule. I am committed to this project; I am committed to the expansion of the economy of the East axis of Lagos. That is the surest way to go.

“By doing this project, we would also expand the real estate value of this axis and the tourism potential of the Badagry axis. I am confident that in no time, we should have a complete project before end of 2019,” he said.

Inspecting the stretch of link road from Agbelekale, off Ekoro Road to Abesan Estate via Church Street, Giwa and Aboru, Governor Ambode expressed satisfaction at the progress of the project, but urged the contractor and supervisors to ensure delivery of the project within first quarter of 2017.

The governor said the bridge being constructed as part of the project had to be extended from 240 meters to 360 meters due to the nature of soil in the area.

At Irede Road, Abule Oshun in Oriade Local Council Development Area (LCDA), the governor expressed displeasure at the state of the road, assuring that work will start on the road within four weeks.

“I have come to see it and I have received complaints from people of this community. I also see that the economic value that we stand to benefit from upgrading this road is unquantifiable.

“Beyond the fact that we will open up the road to the Lagos Badagry Expressway, we also intend to expand our housing policy and the rent-to-own scheme to this neighbourhood. So, I like to just clearly state that work will commence on Irede Road within four weeks,” he said.