Sanwo-Olu to construct four new Lagos markets in 2025

Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has assured traders of expanding their trading scope by building more markets for them, noting four of the markets would be ready this year.

The governor said this at the commissioning of a network of roads in Somolu, Ifako and Bariga axis of the state, stressing that one of the major reasons his administration is expanding road networks and re-constructing the existing ones is to cope with the development in the state.

Sanwo-Olu said one of the reasons his administration is pulling down some market structures is because they are old, and the structures pose a threat to the traders, assuring the people of the state that two of the reconstructed markets are at an advanced stage and would be ready soon.

He noted that the development in the Lagos mainland is massive. “As such there is the need to construct road infrastructures to meet the demands required for development. These areas have grown and expanded, there has been a need to ensure that the transport infrastructure connecting them keeps up with the pace of population and traffic growth.

“All of these areas are fast-growing commercial and residential hubs, with unique characters that contribute to the trademark dynamism of our beloved megacity.

“It is against this backdrop that we have embarked upon this very critical project, driven by our commitment to the Greater Lagos vision: a Lagos that functions optimally for the benefit of all its residents.

“In line with the first pillar of our THEMES+ governing agenda, this road rehabilitation project will improve the commuting experience, boost the quality and value of real estate, and raise the quality of life for the people of the benefiting areas,” Sanwo-Olu said.

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.”

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.”

Earlier in his remark, one of the traditional rulers in the community present at the road commissioning, the monarch of Gbobi-Sabe, Owolabi Adeyemi Adeniyi said Sanwo-Olu deserved commendation because he ensured he fulfill most of the promises he made to the people when he was campaigning.

He, however, urged the people of the state to support the state government by paying their taxes promptly.