Lagos to upgrade infrastructure in nine communities

By Halimah Balogun and Anne Agbi

LAGOS State is set to execute its slum improvement plans and intervention projects in Somolu, Bariga, Ifelodun, Ijora, Badia, Ikota, Olusosun, Alausa and Surulere communities.

The government, through Lagos State Urban Renewal Agency (LASURA), has engaged stakeholders to encourage them to take ownership of the projects.

Addressing stakeholders at a forum at the Radio Lagos/Eko FM Marquee, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Idris Salako, assured owners, developers and residents that the improvement plan would add value to the communities

“The level and speed of degradation of parts of these listed areas have continued to cause serious concern to the state government, especially as regards the pursuit of the Greater Lagos dream and making Lagos a 21st century economic pillar of the THEMES,” he said.

He urged the communities to be patient and embrace the development brought to their doorsteps to optimise the goals for the wellbeing of the people.

Special Adviser to the governor on Urban Development, Ayuba Adele, urged residents to avoid acts that could reduce the life span of roads.

Representative of Somolu Constituency 1 in the House of Assembly, Rotimi Olowo, urged residents to cooperate with LASURA on right-of-way.

“Of roads to be re-developed across nine communities, Somolu has 11 roads,” he said.

General Manager of LASURA Ms Ajibike Shomade said the regeneration and intervention projects would avert urban decay.

The agency, she said, had declared 11 areas for re-development, including Ilasan Housing Estate (60 hectares), Ikota Housing Estate (53.793 hectares), Makoko (72 hectares), Obalende (16 hectares), Shomolu/Bariga (part of 225 hectares), Ifelodun/Badia (part of 510 hectares).