In a landmark move aimed at improving transportation and ensuring the safety of residents, the Lagos State Government officially opened the T-shaped Oyingbo Overpass Bridge to vehicular traffic on Sunday.
This newly inaugurated infrastructure is a vital component of the ambitious Lagos Rail Mass Transit (LRMT) Red Line project.
The ceremony was graced by the presence of Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State, who was invited by Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to inaugurate the project, which was spearheaded by the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA).
The unveiling of the Oyingbo Flyover comes just three days after the inauguration of the Yaba Flyover, another significant Red Line infrastructure project.
Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized the importance of the Oyingbo Overpass Bridge in ensuring both the safety of lives and the seamless flow of vehicular traffic along the Red Line Rail. The 7.7-meter bridge is the second of four such structures to be delivered as part of the Red Line project, aimed at enhancing traffic management and transportation efficiency.
The Oyingbo Flyover plays a crucial role in connecting Lagos Island and the Mainland, spanning from Murtala Mohammed Way in Ebute Metta and leading traffic into two separate arterial roads, Iddo and Costain.
Governor Sanwo-Olu highlighted that this infrastructure solution addresses the chronic issues of vehicular congestion and delays in the area, ultimately facilitating smoother mobility for commuters.
Furthermore, the Oyingbo Overpass is designed to eliminate pedestrian and vehicular interference on the rail tracks, significantly reducing the risk of accidents and collisions between trains and vehicles. This safety enhancement is a critical aspect of the Red Line project, prioritizing the well-being of both commuters and railway operations.
Governor Sanwo-Olu stated, “Today, we are opening another Overpass Bridge constructed to ensure the safety of lives and uninterrupted flow of vehicular traffic at level crossings along the Red Line. This key project, which is the second of the five bridges undertaken by the Lagos State Government along the rail corridor, has been delivered in Oyingbo, famous for being a thriving center of commerce.”
“The siting of this infrastructure in this area is strategic and intentional to achieve a seamless integrated intermodal transport system for the people,” he added. “Oyingbo Flyover is an important bridge connecting Oyingbo Station of the Lagos Red Line to the Oyingbo Bus Station. The infrastructure has also opened new connectivity for motorists and commuters going to the Island from the Mainland.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu also noted that the opening of the Oyingbo Bridge comes at a crucial time, coinciding with the maintenance work on the Third Mainland Bridge, which led to the closure of Ebute Metta sections serving as passageways to Lagos Island. The Oyingbo Flyover now provides alternative routes for accessing Lagos Island.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, however, cautioned against the misuse of the infrastructure, emphasizing that the State Government would not tolerate illegal activities, including trading, under the bridge. He further highlighted that the construction of the bridge had not only harnessed local engineering expertise but also facilitated skill transfer and the development of local engineering solutions.
In a bid to promote education and skill development, Governor Sanwo-Olu revealed that students of engineering from tertiary institutions based in Lagos were actively involved throughout the construction process.
In his remarks, Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State commended Lagos State for its transformative leadership, progressive reforms, and good governance. He cited the commissioning of the Oyingbo Overpass as evidence of what can be achieved with visionary leadership.
The Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, highlighted how the flyover aligns with the governor’s development blueprint, THEMES Plus Agenda, to deliver an integrated transportation master plan aimed at making Lagos a competitive city.
Mrs. Abimbola Akinajo, the Managing Director of LAMATA, praised Governor Sanwo-Olu for his commitment to ensuring the timely completion of the Red Line infrastructure.
Mrs. Omolola Essien, the Chairman of Lagos Mainland Local Government Area, described the event as “momentous” and the bridge as “a symbol of progress” for Lagos Mainland residents. She promised zero tolerance for trading under the bridge and pledged to protect the infrastructure for the benefit of the community.
The opening of the Oyingbo Overpass Bridge represents a significant milestone in the development of Lagos State’s transportation infrastructure, promising safer and more efficient travel for all residents.
