Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State officially inaugurated the Yaba flyover, a pivotal moment in the ongoing transformation of the state’s transportation infrastructure. The Yaba flyover is one of four bridges being simultaneously constructed along the Red Line rail corridor, and its opening to traffic promises to revolutionise commuting and connectivity in Lagos Mainland.
During a ceremony held on Thursday, the Governor commissioned the T-shaped overpass, which will serve as a crucial alternative route for accessing key areas, including Ebute Metta, Oyingbo, Yaba, and Surulere. In his address, Governor Sanwo-Olu highlighted the importance of this project and its role in fulfilling his administration’s commitment to addressing transportation challenges in the state.
The project, undertaken by the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), has brought much-needed relief to motorists and commuters travelling through Yaba. It has effectively resolved congestion and delays related to railway level crossings that previously hindered smooth movement in the vicinity. Moreover, the overpass bridge has successfully eliminated the risks of pedestrian and vehicular interference on the rail tracks, significantly reducing the chances of accidents and collisions between trains and vehicles.
The inauguration ceremony saw an enthusiastic crowd of residents gather to witness this significant development. Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasised that the Yaba flyover’s completion marked the beginning of the final phase of the Lagos Rail Mass Transit (LRMT) Red Line, stretching 37 kilometres from Agbado to Oyingbo. He underscored his administration’s commitment to providing sustainable solutions to transportation challenges.
In his address, the Governor declared, “Today, we are formally inaugurating a key component of the infrastructure projects initiated to bring about traffic improvement and solutions to the challenges encountered.” He further announced that overpasses at Ikeja, Mushin, and Oyingbo were nearing completion and would be opened to traffic before the end of December 2023, ensuring enhanced transportation across the state.
He stated, “Before the end of the year, other overpass bridges at Ikeja, Mushin, and Oyingbo will be formally commissioned, and there will be no more occurrences of train-vehicle accidents at these locations.”
The delivery of the Yaba flyover stands as a testament to the Government’s vision for an integrated transportation system, effectively turning the area into a hub for rapid bus and rail transportation. Governor Sanwo-Olu disclosed that Red Line trains would soon undergo pre-inauguration test runs, followed by the official launch and full-scale operations of the metro line in 2024.
Governor Sanwo-Olu also issued a call to action, urging road users to protect the newly inaugurated infrastructure from vandalism and arson, while cautioning against using the bridge for trading activities. He emphasised the importance of adhering to these guidelines and instructed law enforcement officers to ensure compliance.
Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, delved into the details of the Lagos Strategic Transport Master Plan (STMP), designed to address various transport imperatives, including offering multiple transport choices, introducing an integrated transport system, and making transit more attractive, convenient, affordable, and accessible. He emphasised that the infrastructure would optimise road network usage and aid urban transport planning.
LAMATA Managing Director, Mrs. Abimbola Akinajo, revealed that three out of the four remaining bridges had been completed and awaited commissioning. The only outstanding project is the Mushin overpass, which is due for completion by December. She highlighted the transformative impact of the Red Line and its ancillary infrastructure on the state’s economy.
