The Managing Director and Chief Executive of the Federal Housing Authority (FHA), Oyetunde Ojo, revealed yesterday that the authority has begun efforts to revamp decaying infrastructure, particularly roads in FESTAC Town, and restore the community’s lost glory.

He explained that the authority is collaborating with relevant stakeholders and would soon ban the operations of motorcyclists, popularly called Okada, and minibuses (Korope) on the inner roads of the town.

Once a top-choice residential area in Lagos, FESTAC has suffered from decaying infrastructure in recent years due to poor maintenance, the emergence of shanties, and a generally dirty environment. The estate is also plagued by security challenges, prompting many residents to relocate for safety reasons.

Speaking at the commissioning of a new estate gate and streetlights, Ojo disclosed that three major roads: First Avenue, Second Avenue, and Seventh Avenue, have been prioritised for rehabilitation.

Due to funding constraints, the FHA sought the intervention of the Federal Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA) for the reconstruction of Second and Seventh Avenues.

Ojo appealed to residents to cooperate with contractors mobilised to fix the roads, saying a tripartite committee could be set up to ensure calmness and smooth operation.

“The FHA has had discussions with the chairman of the council regarding fixing the dilapidated inner roads in FESTAC,” he said.

The Chairman of Amuwo-Odofin Local Council, Olanrewaju Sanusi, announced that the council would soon begin construction of Seventh Avenue, the road leading to the Trade Fair Complex, while also clearing shanties in Second Avenue, Abule-Ado, Alakija, and other areas.

The Executive Director of Projects Implementation at FHA, Oluremi Omowaiye, stated that the restoration efforts were already visible, with the reconstruction of First Avenue and the completion of the new estate gate. He assured that the authority would not compromise standards in restoring infrastructure.

In his remarks, the President of the FESTAC Residents Association, Mohammed Adegbenro, said the estate was now “enjoying the best of times.”

unlike in the past, when it had to accept its fate, cry and protest.” He added that the new developments represent more than just a new gate, but also the promise of improved security and beauty for the community.