Sanwo-Olu explains delay in opening Opebi-Odoiya Bridge

Etim Ekpimah

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has attributed the delay in opening the Opebi-Odoiya Alaro Bridge to traffic and the installation of a 25-metre steel monument designed to reflect the area’s heritage as a cane-weaving hub.

The governor explained during an unscheduled visit to the bridge on Sunday, 25 October 2026, where he inspected the installation work being carried out by Julius Berger.

Sanwo-Olu said the monument, which was not included in the bridge’s original design, was conceived towards the end of the construction project, delaying the opening of the completed infrastructure.

He apologised for the delay, noting that he had earlier indicated that the bridge would open to traffic by the end of September, based on the construction schedule presented to him.

“In a recent media gathering, I mentioned that the newly completed Opebi-Odoiya Alaro Bridge would be open to traffic at the end of September based on the work plan I was briefed on. But we are approaching the end of October, and the work is yet to be completed,” he said.

The governor explained that the steel structure was intended to represent the craft of cane weaving for which the area was known, adding that the installation involved an extensive engineering process.

According to him, the project requires the installation of about 300 tonnes of steel at a height of approximately 25 metres. Three of the monument’s four steel components had been assembled and installed, while work on the final component was expected to begin shortly.

Sanwo-Olu said the installation was about 80 per cent complete and required a few more days before the remaining component and other planned features could be added.

He urged residents to be patient, stressing that the government would not compromise safety by opening the bridge before the installation was completed.

“We must ensure that the steel components are safely fitted before the infrastructure is opened to traffic. That is why I have come to the site myself,” he said.

The governor praised officials of the state’s Ministry of Works and Infrastructure and the construction workers for their efforts, while urging them to accelerate the remaining work.

He assured residents that the bridge would be opened to traffic before the Christmas and New Year festivities, adding that the project would improve mobility and enhance the area’s appeal as a landmark for recreation, tourism and cultural heritage.