“Lagos cannot rival world-class cities without disciplined citizens” says Sanwo-Olu
The governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has stated that Lagos cannot rival world-class cities without disciplined citizens, in a statement on Saturday, where he compared Lagos with world-class cities. The comparison stemmed from the commencement of the removal of illegally mounted shanties and market stalls erected on the Lagos-Badagry Expressway.
The governor attributed the success of leading cities of the world to its disciplined citizens, highlighting that while many residents compare Lagos to other world leading cities, it must also put into consideration the attitude of the citizens towards public assets.
“We often compare Lagos with some world-leading cities and ask why we cannot be like them. The truth is that those cities work because those people respect public infrastructure and obey the rules.” He stated.
“If we want a cleaner, safer and more-organized Lagos, discipline and responsibility must become part of our everyday culture. That is how we build a city we can all be proud of.” He added.
The commencement of the bridge reconstruction began with the demolition order by the governor, following a 72-hour ultimatum to vacate the corridor given prior to the commencement. The governor then announced that the reconstruction was to stretch from Orile-Iganmu to Okokomaiko, reflecting the efforts of the state to reclaim public areas and protect infrastructure.
According to the governor, the ongoing reconstruction of the expressway into a 10-lane highway cannot exist alongside illegal settlements.
“As we rebuild the Lagos-Badagry Expressway into a 10-lane highway, we cannot allow its median to become a highway. It is unsafe, illegal and unacceptable.” He said.
“Dumping waste indiscriminately or building illegal structures along our highways will not move us forward.”
He expressed that the Lagos-Badagry Expressway which is a major component of the Trans-West African Coastal Highway that links Nigeria with other West African countries was built with taxpayers money and must not be converted into a slum.
The Governor also revealed that an additional 150 waste compactors would be introduced alongside waste collection tricycles in inner communities to strengthen waste disposal. According to him, the government was investing in modern waste processing infrastructure, including a material recovery and recycling facility capable of processing about 4,250 metric tonnes of waste daily.
The Governor also encouraged residents to support the reforms through proper waste disposal and prompt payment for services.
