At the inception of this administration in May 2015, the traffic situation at the Ojodu Berger axis was one of the challenges we identified as requiring urgent attention. This decision was informed by the strategic importance of this axis being a major gateway into our State.
What we set out to achieve with this project was to ensure smooth flow of traffic along the express, safeguard the lives of our people who had to run across the express and project the image of a truly global city to our visitors. Today, we are delighted that we have not only succeeded in transforming the landscape of this axis but with the slip road, laybys and pedestrian bridge, we have given a new and pleasant experience to all entering and exiting our State.
This project is the product of our innovative team of engineers, architects and town planners who have worked hard to create an innovative solution to tackle the challenges of this axis. I say a big thank you to the staff of the Lagos State Ministry of Works and the contractors – CCECC Nigeria Limited for a job well done.
We will not stop with the Ojodu Berger axis. This is an ongoing process and we are working to create solutions to traffic congestion in every part of the State. If your neighbourhood or community is experiencing traffic challenges, be rest assured that we will soon be there.
Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, let me use this opportunity to reiterate that Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIO) have been asked to stay off our roads permanently. We also advice the Federal Road Safety Corps to stay on the fringes and highways and not on the main streets of Lagos. It has become evident that these agencies contribute to the traffic challenges on our roads. We will employ technology to track and monitor vehicle registration and MOT certifications.
We will always ensure that promises made are promises kept. We will continue to rely on the support of all segments of the population for regular tax payments, obeying the rule of law and protection of public infrastructure. That is the only way we can progress and achieve our goal of being one of the world’s top centres for business, entertainment and leisure.
As we celebrate the Golden Jubilee anniversary of our State, I am confident that the future prospects are very promising and that the journey of the next Fifty years is commencing on a very sound and solid footing. Our State has lived up to its reputation as a land of possibilities, a centre of excellence and we are on our way to becoming a truly global City-State.
As we celebrate the delivery of this facility, I wish you all happy Golden Jubilee Anniversary celebration.
Thank you and God bless you all.
Itesiwaju Ipinle Eko, lo je wa logun!