By Dansu Peter The much-anticipated Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway project gained further momentum today as key stakeholders gathered in Badag...
By Dansu Peter
Leading the discussions on behalf of Badagry, Executive Chairman of Badagry Local Government, Hon. Onilude Segun Adeniran, expressed profound appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to ensuring the expressway becomes a reality. Addressing the stakeholders, Onilude underscored the project's significance in enhancing transportation, facilitating trade, and fostering economic growth across multiple geopolitical zones.
"On behalf of the people of Badagry, I want to thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for not only conceiving but also championing this historic infrastructure project. The Sokoto-Badagry highway is more than just a road; it is a transformational initiative that will unlock immense economic potential and ease transportation across Nigeria and the West African corridor. Given Badagry’s strategic position, this project will serve as a major catalyst for trade, investment, and overall development," Onilude stated.
The meeting also provided a platform for traditional rulers and community representatives to voice their expectations and concerns regarding the project. The traditional leaders, drawn from communities along the highway’s proposed route, emphasized the need for fair compensation for affected property owners, the prioritization of local labor, and adherence to high-quality construction standards.
Responding to these concerns, TSL Engineering Ltd.’s representatives, Mr. Gomwalk Celestine and Mr. Marquise Orcoruiwa, assured stakeholders that the project would prioritize community engagement and economic inclusivity. They highlighted ongoing work in the Sokoto-Kebbi section and projected a structured commencement of the Badagry section, which will extend through Kwara, Oyo, Ogun, and Lagos states.
Mr. Gomwalk further reassured community members of job opportunities for local artisans and laborers, stating that beyond the expressway’s long-term economic impact, the construction phase itself would create employment and stimulate local businesses.
On environmental sustainability, environmental specialist Feyor Onowakpokpo addressed concerns about ecological preservation, affirming that the project aligns with sustainability goals and would minimize any adverse impact on the local ecosystem.
Traditional rulers in attendance expressed their gratitude to President Tinubu for prioritizing such a monumental project, pledging their full cooperation to ensure its smooth execution. They also urged all stakeholders to ensure minimal disruptions to the livelihoods of residents during construction.
Hon. Onilude reaffirmed the local government’s commitment to working closely with all stakeholders, ensuring that community interests remain protected.
"This is just one of many engagements we will have as work begins on the Lagos section of the project. As hosts and beneficiaries, we assure you of our full support. Key issues raised today—including compensation, local employment, and construction quality—have been noted, and we expect the necessary action will be taken to ensure smooth implementation," he added.
The meeting was attended by several key local government officials, including Vice Chairman Hon. Elizabeth Kappo, Leader of the House Hon. Taofik Aremu Akindele, Secretary to the Local Government Hon. Moses Gbetogo Opa, and Supervisor for Works Hon. Iroko Sulaimon Iroko.
Also present were esteemed traditional rulers such as HRM Aholu Jimoh Fabiyi of Koga-Zebe, HRM Oba Israel Okoya of Ibereko, and HRM Aholu Avonsegamu Agano of Ajara-Agamathen, alongside other prominent chiefs representing communities along the expressway corridor.
With this latest engagement, the Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway project continues to move forward with strong community backing, reinforcing President Tinubu’s vision for a more interconnected and economically vibrant Nigeria.
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