A new chapter in Nigeria’s infrastructural development has begun as President Bola Tinubu officially flagged off the reconstruction and expansion of the Lagos-Ibadan Dual Carriageway (Section 1) and Lagos-Sagamu Expressway (Section 1).
This landmark project, launched at Sagamu, Ogun State, at the weekend, is set to be completed within 24 months and promises to redefine mobility and economic connectivity in the region.
Speaking at the event, where he was represented by Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, President Tinubu reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to infrastructural transformation.
The project will incorporate critical underpasses at Kara, Wawa, Magboro, and Arepo, along with strategically placed flyover bridges at Kilometer 16 (Mountain of Fire Ministries, MFM) and Kilometer 37 (Makun, Sagamu). Additionally, pedestrian bridges will be constructed at Arepo, Magboro, NASFAT, Deeper Life, and Redemption Camp, enhancing road safety for commuters.
Further solidifying the administration’s infrastructural vision, the president announced the commencement of work on the remaining 60-kilometer stretch of the Sagamu-Benin Expressway, spanning from Sagamu Interchange to Itele.
This expansion aims to improve road safety, ease traffic congestion, and enhance economic activities along the corridor.
A Roadway of National Significance
President Tinubu highlighted the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway as more than just a highway, describing it as Nigeria’s busiest road and a vital link between Lagos, the country’s economic powerhouse, and the 17 southern states. He emphasized that the federal government’s Renewed Hope Agenda is centered on connecting rural and urban roads, fostering commerce, and enhancing industrial growth.
“The federal government is committed to leveraging our natural resources by linking rural roads to urban centers, commercial hubs, and industrial corridors,” Tinubu stated.
Acknowledging the years of neglect that have led to tragic accidents, the president assured Nigerians that the newly upgraded and expanded expressway would significantly reduce travel time, improve road safety, and enhance ease of doing business.
The inclusion of the Sagamu-Ore Road in this phase, he added, further reinforces the administration’s commitment to aligning national road networks with international standards a move expected to spur economic expansion and industrial development.
A Vision for Modern Infrastructure
Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, provided additional insights into the scope of the project, revealing that Phase 2 of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway project had been restructured after a disagreement over pricing with Julius Berger, leading to contract termination.
“What we are doing today includes key infrastructural developments such as underpasses at Magboro, Warewa, Arepo, Sagamu, and Iperu covering a total of 24 kilometers. The next phase will span 48 kilometers, stretching from Iperu to Ijebu-Ode, as part of the larger Sagamu-Ore Road project,” he explained.
To ensure transparency, the minister mandated that contractors would not receive any payment without a valid Advanced Payment Guarantee (APG) certificate and Performance Bond, safeguarding project funds against mismanagement.
A Collaborative Effort for Progress
Hon. Akin Alabi, Chairman of the House Committee on Works, pledged legislative support to ensure the completion of quality road infrastructure, stressing that the road is not just for Ogun State but a lifeline for millions of Nigerians.
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In the same vein, Ogun State Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Ade Akinsanya, expressed appreciation to the federal government for incorporating pedestrian bridges, assuring that the state government would collaborate with contractors to facilitate timely delivery.
The Akarigbo of Remoland, Oba Babatunde Ajayi, urged authorities to construct additional flyovers at the Sagamu junction and police divisional junction, along with a dedicated fire station to enhance emergency response on the highway.
Following these remarks, Governor Abiodun officially performed the flag-off on behalf of President Tinubu, marking the beginning of a transformative infrastructural initiative aimed at boosting economic productivity, road safety, and seamless interstate connectivity.
With the groundwork now set, the countdown begins towards a modernized and safer Lagos-Ibadan and Lagos-Sagamu expressway network—one that is poised to shape Nigeria’s transportation landscape for generations to come.