Tinubu Flags Off Reconstruction Of Lagos, Sagamu Benin Expressway, Promises Completion In 24 Months

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially flagged off the reconstruction and expansion of the Lagos, Sagamu Benin Expressway Dual Carriageway (Phase 1), reaffirming his administration’s commitment to modernizing Nigeria’s road infrastructure

The flag-off ceremony, held in Sagamu, Ogun State, saw President Tinubu, represented by Governor Dapo Abiodun, announce that the project would be completed within 24 months. The construction will include critical underpasses at Kara, Wawa, Magboro, and Arepo, alongside the erection of flyover bridges at Kilometer 16 (Mountain of Fire Ministries) and Kilometer 37 (Makun, Sagamu).

In a move to enhance pedestrian safety, new footbridges will be built at Arepo, Magboro, NASFAT, Deeper Life, and Redemption Camp. Additionally, the federal government will commence the construction of the remaining 60-kilometer stretch of the Sagamu-Benin Expressway from Sagamu Interchange to Itele.

President Tinubu emphasized the strategic significance of the road, describing it as the busiest highway in Nigeria and a critical gateway linking Lagos, the nation’s commercial capital, to the 17 southern states of the federation.

“The Lagos-Ibadan Expressway is not just another road; it is the busiest highway in Nigeria and the gateway to the hinterland, serving as the primary link between Lagos, the nation’s commercial capital, and the rest of the country,” Tinubu stated.

He reiterated that his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda prioritizes road infrastructure development, which is essential for economic growth, industrialization, and improved mobility.

Acknowledging years of neglect and the tragic loss of lives due to the road’s poor condition, the president assured Nigerians that the reconstruction would reduce travel time, improve business efficiency, and enhance road safety.

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Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, provided further insight into the project, revealing that a section of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway previously awarded to Julius Berger had to be terminated due to pricing disagreements. The re-awarded phase now includes extensive work on Magboro, Warewa, Arepo, Sagamu, and Iperu, covering a total of 24 kilometers. The next phase will extend from Iperu to Ijebu-Ode, spanning another 48 kilometers.

Umahi also issued a directive that no contractor will receive payment without a valid Advanced Payment Guarantee (APG) certificate and a performance bond, ensuring accountability and project efficiency.

Chairman of the House Committee on Works, Hon. Akin Alabi, reiterated the National Assembly’s commitment to ensuring that Nigerians benefit from quality road networks. Ogun State Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Ade Akinsanya, expressed gratitude for the inclusion of pedestrian bridges and assured collaboration with contractors to ensure timely completion.

The Akarigbo of Remoland, Oba Babatunde Ajayi, called for additional flyovers at the Sagamu junction and the police divisional junction. He also recommended the construction of a fire station along the expressway to address emergency situations.

Governor Abiodun, representing President Tinubu, officially performed the groundbreaking, marking the beginning of what is expected to be a transformational infrastructure upgrade for Ogun State and beyond.

The reconstruction of the Lagos-Sagamu-Benin Expressway signals a renewed commitment by the federal government to address critical transportation challenges and stimulate economic development. With an ambitious 24-month timeline, stakeholders are hopeful that this vital project will be delivered as promised, setting a precedent for future infrastructural developments across Nigeria.