Lagos begins 64-day rehabilitation of Lekki–Epe Expressway, Giwa promises well-orchestrated traffic control

Stanley Ihedigbo

Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to ensuring uninterrupted vehicular movement and public safety as it commenced the 64-day rehabilitation of the 20-kilometre stretch of the Lekki–Epe Expressway.

According to the Director, Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department of LASTMA, Adebayo Taofiq, the assurance was given on Monday by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Hon. Sola Giwa, who disclosed that comprehensive and well-coordinated traffic management measures have been strategically put in place to minimise inconvenience to road users throughout the construction period.

Addressing officers of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), Hon. Giwa clarified that the rehabilitation exercise would not require the closure of the expressway, stressing that traffic control operations would be concentrated at critical and designated intersections to sustain smooth vehicular movement along the corridor.

According to him, traffic management strategies have been carefully designed and implemented in phases, with the deployment of over 305 LASTMA operatives to strengthen operations within the three existing traffic management zones covering the axis.

He explained that the expanded deployment is aimed at guaranteeing unhindered traffic flow, ensuring rapid response to incidents and enforcing traffic regulations without compromise, thereby maintaining orderliness and road safety during the rehabilitation exercise.

Hon. Giwa acknowledged the steady increase in vehicular volume and commercial haulage activities along the Lekki–Epe corridor, attributing the surge to the presence of major economic and infrastructural facilities within the axis.
These, he said, include the Lekki Deep Sea Port, Lekki Free Trade Zone, Dangote Refinery and other emerging commercial and industrial developments which have significantly intensified traffic demand in the area.

In anticipation of traffic-related contingencies, the Special Adviser disclosed that LASTMA has deployed a fleet of high, medium and low-capacity recovery vehicles, including tow trucks, to ensure the prompt removal of broken-down vehicles and prevent secondary congestion.

He further revealed that the agency would deploy advanced drone technology for real-time aerial surveillance to enable swift detection, assessment and resolution of traffic incidents not only along the Lekki–Epe Expressway but also across other strategic locations in the state.

Hon. Giwa added that the traffic management framework for the rehabilitation period includes the installation of clear directional signage, adequate street lighting and other essential safety enhancements to guide motorists and ensure visibility, especially at night.

To further strengthen operations, personnel of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) and Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI) have been deployed to complement LASTMA officers, enhance security and protect lives and property throughout the duration of the project.

Motorists were advised to explore alternative routes provided by the government to ease pressure on the construction corridor. In this regard, Hon. Giwa identified the Coaster Road from Ogombo through Abraham Adesanya as a recommended alternative during the rehabilitation phase.

He urged road users to remain patient, demonstrate civic responsibility and comply strictly with traffic regulations and directives from traffic officers, noting that collective discipline and cooperation remain critical to the success of the rehabilitation exercise.

The Special Adviser also encouraged members of the public to promptly report traffic-related incidents by contacting the LASTMA Toll-Free Hotline on 080000527862, assuring motorists of swift and professional response.

The Lagos State Government appealed to residents and road users for understanding, patience and cooperation as it undertakes the vital infrastructure upgrade in the overall interest of improved mobility, enhanced safety and sustainable economic development.