By Jabiru Hassan, Kano
On Tuesday, December 3, 2024, the Minister of State for Works (HMSW), Muhammad Bello Goronyo, Esq, officially commissioned the recently rehabilitated road at Ijora Causeway in the Apapa-Ijora Local Government Area of Lagos State. The road, which had critically failed, was rebuilt using rigid pavement and constructed through direct labor. It was completed up to about 80% under the supervision of the Federal Emergency Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA).
Speaking at the commissioning, Goronyo highlighted that the road project would significantly improve the economic well-being of the community. He also emphasized that it would help address youth unemployment, insecurity, and threats to communal peace.
While praising FERMA for its prompt response to the community’s needs, the HMSW urged the agency to ensure the completion of the remaining portion of the road before the end of the year. This, he said, would align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which emphasizes infrastructure development.
He further appealed to local leaders and residents to take full ownership of the road to prevent it from being misused. The representative of the Ojora of Ijora, Chief Samsudeen Ojora, who was unable to attend, expressed gratitude on behalf of His Royal Majesty and the people of Ijora for the road’s recovery and reconstruction. He described the previous state of the road as impassable, terrible, and an eyesore.
Chief Ojora appealed to the Minister and FERMA to expedite the completion of the remaining work. He also assured the Minister of the Oba’s unwavering support and continuous prayers for the Federal Government.
Dr. Chukwuemeka Agbasi, Managing Director/CEO of FERMA, commended the Oba of Ijora and the local community for their cooperation and support during the construction process. He assured them that FERMA would continue to prioritize effective road management and contribute to the development of the nation’s infrastructure.
