Sir: Commendations have been passed on the Ogun State Government for the speedy progress of the ongoing rehabilitation work on the Abeokuta/Sango-Ota/Lagos Expressway.
Commuters and motorists, who could not hide their joy seeing the road wear a new look, expressed satisfaction with the pace and quality of work done so far on the ever-busy road. And, of course, their excitement is not misplaced, especially given the road’s long history of neglect. The joy is a direct result of the improved travel conditions on this vital corridor. One of the key reasons for the outpouring of praises is that the expressway is a federal road.
For years, the road has been in a deplorable state, causing untold hardship to motorists, commuters, and residents. Previous attempts to get the federal government to fix the road were largely unsuccessful. While the neglect lasted, the road’s condition led to frequent accidents, traffic gridlocks, and a huge economic loss for businesses and individuals who ply the route.
After a prolonged discussion, Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, in collaboration with his Lagos State counterpart, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, were able to secure the approval of the Federal Government to take over the project. This is seen as a major breakthrough and a demonstration of political will, following the flag off of the reconstruction project by Governor Abiodun in August 2024, with an 18-month completion timeline. The state government had adopted a phased approach, with different construction gangs working simultaneously on various sections of the road. Due to this initiative, some critical sections like Brewery, Obada-Oko (both in Abeokuta), and Itori Junction up to Lafarge Cement Factory, Ewekoro have already been repaired and reopened to traffic, providing immediate relief. This has resulted in a significant reduction in travel time and a much smoother flow of traffic. The new look of these portions of the road is what has led to the encomium being poured on the governor.
For concerned commuters and motorists, the successful intervention on this road is a major political win for the Governor. It demonstrates his commitment to providing infrastructure and addresses a key concern of the people, solidifying his public image as a leader who delivers on his promises. It is a strategic move that could play a significant role in future political considerations, especially as the 2027 general elections cycle draw nearer. The goodwill from this project will be a major asset for him and his political party.
In effect, the rehabilitation of the Abeokuta/Sango-Ota/Lagos Expressway is more than just a road project; it is a symbol of a government’s commitment to its people, a testament to political collaboration, and a source of hope for thousands of commuters who have endured years of suffering on the road.
The Olu of Itori, Oba AbdulFatai Akorede Akamo, while fielding questions from newsmen, noted that the road had been in deplorable condition for a long time due to abandonment by both the federal and previous state governments.
In essence, the Abeokuta/Sango-Ota/Lagos Expressway is far more than just a link between two cities. It is a lifeline for a vibrant industrial and residential corridor. Its rehabilitation is a game-changer that is expected to unlock the economic potential of Ogun State and improve the lives of millions of Nigerians who live, work, and do business in the region.
• Femi Ogbonnikan is a Senior Special Assistant (SSA) on Media to Ogun State Governor.
