Lagos, Nigeria’s bustling commercial hub is undergoing a transformative infrastructure revolution under the leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. Major road networks across the state are being rebuilt expanded and modernised signaling a new era of urban development. These efforts are not merely about easing transportation; they are about driving economic growth, enhancing the quality of life, and reinforcing Lagos’ position as a global city. IBRAHIM ADAM reports on this ambitious journey toward a greater Lagos.
The past state of Lagos roads: A tale of neglect, chaos
To fully appreciate the significance of Sanwo-Olu’s infrastructure revolution, it is essential to revisit the past state of Lagos roads. For decades, residents of Lagos endured some of the most chaotic and dilapidated road networks in Nigeria.
The city’s rapid population growth, coupled with inadequate urban planning, left its roads in a state of disrepair. Potholes, flooding, and traffic gridlocks became synonymous with Lagos, earning it the unenviable reputation of having some of the worst roads in the country.
In many parts of the city, roads were virtually impassable during the rainy season. Flooding was a recurring nightmare, with entire neighbourhoods submerged for days.
Commuters spent hours in traffic, while businesses suffered losses due to delayed deliveries and reduced productivity. The lack of proper drainage systems exacerbated the problem, turning minor rainfall into major disasters.
The situation was particularly dire in densely populated areas such as Somolu, Bariga and Amuwo-Odofin, where narrow, poorly maintained roads were overwhelmed by the sheer volume of vehicles and pedestrians.
Even in upscale neighbourhoods like Ikoyi and Ikeja GRA, the roads were not immune to decay. The neglect of infrastructure was a glaring reminder of the challenges facing Africa’s largest city.
Sanwo-Olu: A governor on a mission
Governor Sanwo-Olu has made infrastructural development a cornerstone of his administration. Recognising the critical role of transportation in economic development, he has embarked on an ambitious mission to transform Lagos’ road network.
At the inauguration of five major roads in Ikeja Government Residential Area (GRA), Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed his commitment towards improving the urban landscape.
He emphasised that infrastructural renewal is a top priority for his administration.
“As a responsive government, we remain committed to reducing travel time. This automatically translates into socio-economic development,” he declared. The newly inaugurated roads are Oba Dosunmu Street, Oduduwa Way, Oduduwa Crescent, Sobo Arobiodu, and Sasegbon Street span over 6.13 kilometers and are part of a broader vision to enhance Lagos’ road network.
Sanwo-Olu assured residents that infrastructural expansion would not be limited to Ikeja but would extend to all 20 local government areas in the state.
The state’s 2025 appropriation bill, amounting to N3.66 trillion, further reflects the administration’s commitment to sustainable development.
“This is a testament to our resolve as leaders to continue shaping a sustainable future for Lagos,” the governor said.
Stakeholder endorsements for transformation
The impact of Sanwo-Olu’s infrastructure revolution has not gone unnoticed. The transformation of Ikeja GRA is a microcosm of the broader changes sweeping across Lagos as the administration works tirelessly to upgrade the city’s infrastructure.
Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, who attended the Ikeja GRA inauguration, praised Sanwo-Olu’s administration.
“Governor Sanwo-Olu, you have proven the projections of stakeholders wrong with your performance. This place is now our own Ikoyi. You and your deputy have turned GRA into Ikoyi GRA,” Fayose remarked.
This acknowledgment from a former governor underscores the effectiveness of Sanwo-Olu’s developmental drive, which has defied skepticism and exceeded expectations.
Lagos Mainland: Roads that serve the people
Infrastructure development under Sanwo-Olu’s administration extends beyond the upscale areas of Lagos. In Somolu, Lagos Mainland, and Kosofe local government areas, the seven newly completed roads are St. Finbarr’s College Road, Asani, Tijani Ashogbon, Jagunmolu, Shogbamu, and Diya Streets are set to revolutionise movement and boost real estate values.
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Sanwo-Olu announced during the inauguration ceremony that: “Joy is coming to every part of Lagos as we fulfill our commitment to equitable development.”
These roads connect vital landmarks, including the University of Lagos, St. Finbarr’s College, and CMS Grammar School, and are equipped with walkways, service ducts, and solar-powered streetlights.
The governor urged residents to maintain the roads properly, emphasizing that this would free up resources for new projects. “With proper maintenance, we can channel resources to new projects, scaling up our infrastructure focus,” he said.
A call for proper road ownership
Lagos lawmaker and Chairman, Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Works, Desmond Elliot, also emphasised the importance of maintaining the newly constructed roads.
At the inauguration of four roads in Amuwo-Odofin, Elliot issued a stern warning against roadside parking.
“This road is not parking spaces. It is not for containers to park or for articulated vehicles. It is meant for people to move; it is meant for people to benefit. Please, can we discourage roadside parking?” Elliot implored.
His call on the residents to take ownership of the roads reflects the administration’s broader plea for collective responsibility in sustaining Lagos’ infrastructure improvements.
Blueprint for a greater Lagos
Sanwo-Olu reiterated that infrastructural expansion is not just about roads but about urban renewal, economic expansion and a sustainable future for Lagos.
The Ikoyi Urban Regeneration Initiative, launched in 2020, has brought significant improvements to one of the city’s most prestigious areas. Phase 2 of the project saw the rehabilitation of seven critical roads, including Oyinkan Abayomi, Femi Okunnu, Macpherson, Ilabere, Ilu, Inupa, and Kuramo roads.
“Transportation infrastructure is the backbone of any thriving economy. These roads are more than just pathways; they are lifelines for economic activity and community well-being,” Sanwo-Olu said.
By addressing flooding, reducing travel time and enhancing property values, the governor maintained that the administration is not just building roads but laying the foundation for a better, more efficient Lagos.
Govt. vows crackdown on defaulters
Governor Sanwo-Olu issued a stern warning against environmental defacement in Lagos, emphasising the government’s commitment to maintaining cleanliness and infrastructural development.
He warned: “Tell them, I do not like the refuse on our roads. We will really come hard on those who are defacing our environment. We want to ensure that the best is expected, we want this area to also look like Ikoyi.”
He assured residents of continued infrastructural improvements, saying: “We have completed phase I of Old Ojo Road but we promise you to complete the second phase to Mazamaza,”
On urban transformation, the governor added: “We need to change the landscape of this area permanently. We need to go back and look at the realignment so that we can have vehicular movement across the waterways.
“We are happy with the modest infrastructure development we have brought. I want to assure you that we will continue to work harder for more.”
Looking ahead: More roads, more progress
Governor Sanwo-Olu assured residents that more roads will be inaugurated in the coming months, particularly in areas such as Akoka, Bariga and Gbagada. As part of this agenda, the Old Ojo Road project in Amuwo-Odofin will also enter its second phase, stretching from Maza Maza Bus Stop to Mile 2.
“We are determined to deliver more projects in this council area. The administration’s focus on equitable development ensures that no part of Lagos is left behind. From the bustling mainland to the serene suburbs, every community is set to benefit from the infrastructure revolution,” Sanwo-Olu reassured Lagosians.
