The Lagos State Government has opened the inbound section of the AFA Bridge on Agric-Isawo Road, Ikorodu, to traffic, providing relief to residents and motorists who have endured flooding and the deteriorating condition of the road.
The opening followed an inspection of ongoing road and bridge projects across Ikorodu and Kosofe by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Infrastructure, Olufemi Daramola, alongside the Permanent Secretary, Office of Infrastructure, Olutokunbo Oyenuga, and other government officials.
Daramola said the newly opened section would allow commuters to avoid the floodplain while construction continues on the outbound carriageway.
“There’s good progress on the bridge works. I’m happy to tell you that the inbound section of AFA Bridge on Agric-Isawo Road has been opened to traffic. Commuters can now safely use this section of the bridge. It’s bye to driving through the floodplain,” he said on Monday.
The Special Adviser, however, urged motorists to comply with temporary traffic management measures, observe speed limits and avoid reckless driving, stressing that the area remained a construction zone.
He also directed motorists to avoid unauthorised bus stops and passenger loading around the bridge to ensure smooth traffic movement.
Pedestrians were equally advised to use designated walkways and stay away from construction areas.
The General Secretary of the CDC Ikorodu West LCDA Road Committee, Abiodun Sunday, described the opening as a major relief for residents who had endured years of hardship.
“After years of patience, endurance and inconvenience, relief is finally here. No more wallowing through floodwater. No more climbing the staircase to get to the bridge deck,” Sunday said.
The Baale of Itowolo, Sikiru Aregbeshola, also commended the state government for rehabilitating the Itowolo Bridge, noting that its poor condition had been a longstanding concern for residents.
At Mile 12, the inspection team visited the Maidan-Patele Link Bridge and Approach Roads, where residents expressed optimism that the project would restore safer access to the area.
Residents said they had been forced to rely on canoes for movement following the collapse of the former pedestrian bridge.
Daramola urged residents to take ownership of the newly provided infrastructure and protect it from damage.
“Let’s all take possession of the road. Let’s manage it well. It’s taxpayers’ money that is used to provide it,” he said.
