The Minister of Works and Housing in Nigeria, Babatunde Fashola, has disclosed that the Lagos-Ibadan and Abuja-Kano Highway as often referred to as “Expressways” will be fully completed by the end of April. He made the announcement during the pre-inspection of the Loko-Oweto Bridge, which has been completed in Nasarawa State. Fashola acknowledged the difficulty of the project, stating that the Lagos-Ibadan Highway is one of the busiest roads in the country, with over 40,000 vehicles using it daily. He also expressed gratitude to commuters for their patience and understanding, as the road could not be shut down during the construction.
“Building through 40,000 vehicular traffic daily is not an easy undertaking, we cannot shut down the road. So, we have to manage and divert traffic for the safety of those involved in the construction. So, I want to implore that forbearance continues because the deadline date we have for completion now is the April 30 this month.” Fashola stated.
He further explained that in about four weeks, the road should be fully completed, open to traffic from Lagos to Ibadan, and beyond the toll gate up to kilometre 116. He added that only 9 kilometres , from kilometres 17 to 27, would be left incomplete. This is because the Oyo State Government is constructing a drainage system across the road to address excessive flooding and climate change in the state. Fashola noted that it was better to wait for the completion of the drainage project before finishing the remaining nine kilometres.
The Minister’s remarks will bring hope to commuters, who have been eagerly anticipating the completion of the Lagos-Ibadan and Abuja-Kano highways. As many are of the opinion that the highways are vital to the country’s economy, they serve as major routes for transportation of goods and services. Their completion will boost economic growth, reduce travel time, and enhance the ease of doing business in Nigeria.
Nigerians are hopeful, that the Federal Government must ensure that the completion date is met, as further delays could result in more inconveniences for commuters and additional expenses for the government.