One of the most traffic-congested cities in the world, Lagos is faced with a daily gridlock that can see motorists spend as much as eight hours a day in jams. There are currently three bridges linking the Lagos mainland with the financial sector Lagos Island but this has proven to be highly inadequate.
Over recent years, the ruling All Progressives Congress, which has governed Lagos State in one shape or form since 1999, has been promising Lagosians the Fourth Mainland Bridge. Now, Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, has revealed that his administration would formally sign an MoU with investors before May 29.
Governor Ambode made this known at the quarterly town hall meeting with constituents of Lagos East Senatorial District, in Ikorodu, yesterday saying the construction of the bridge was proposed to cost over N240bn. He however affirmed that unlike the three existing bridges connecting the island and the mainland, which are free from tolling, the Fourth Mainland Bridge will likely be tolled, as the private investors will want to recoup their money.
“Many investors have shown interest in the actualisation of our dream for the Fourth Mainland Bridge, which will run from Ajah to Ikorodu to Isawo and berth at Ojodu, Ikeja, back to the Ibadan Expressway. By the grace of God, we will sign an MoU and commence action before May 29,” Governor Ambode added.
In addition, the governor also revealed that investors had equally shown interest in the redevelopment of the fish market to an international market and the redevelopment of inner roads in Epe and Ibeju-Lekki area. He added that the first phase of the Blue Line rail on the Lagos-Badagry Expressway, was 85% complete, as the state government was proposing the rail to commence operations by end of this year as the intention of his administration was to ensure that no part of the state was left undeveloped.
“Over the years, the economic activities have continually dwindled resulting in urban migration, underdevelopment and unemployment. It is with a view of revitalising the economic activities of this zone that government has identified the need for urgent intervention.
“To this end, government will be relocating the Mile 12 Market to Imota. Work on this will commence next week as our vision is to make the East Senatorial Zone economically viable and liveable," Governor Ambode added.
He added that he was encouraged by the very transparent, credible, free and fair affirmation which he got from the people of Ikorodu during the meeting. According to the governor, most Lagosians also supported the ban on Okada usage between Mile 12 and Ikorodu.
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