By Emmanuel Udoka, Ifeoluwa Opatola, Iremide Falola, Wuraola Lagundoye, Habeebah Mustapha, and Emmanuel Mayowa.
The ongoing reconstruction of Ogba-Ijaiye Road has sparked mixed reactions among residents and business owners.
For years, this crucial stretch has been notorious for its deep potholes, poor drainage, and traffic congestion, making daily commutes frustrating for motorists and pedestrians alike.
Now, with the Lagos State Public Works Corporation (LSPWC) spearheading its rehabilitation, there is renewed hope for smoother transportation and economic revitalization.
The project, particularly the section from the WAEC Office to Ogba Bus Stop, has already begun to take shape. Fresh asphalt, clearly marked lanes, and improved drainage systems signal a significant transformation.
While these developments promise long-term benefits, the ongoing construction has disrupted business activities for many traders along the route.
For local vendors and shop owners, the temporary setbacks have been severe. Stalls that once enjoyed steady customer traffic are now partially blocked by construction materials and machinery. Pedestrian movement has become difficult, and vehicular diversions have caused some shoppers to avoid the area altogether.
A boutique owner, Mr. Donald James, told NIJ Insight on Wednesday, March 5, that “Sales have dropped by more than 50%. People don’t want to walk through the dust, and the road is a mess. I am praying that this work finishes soon so my business can return to normal.”
Recognizing the growing concerns, the Ojodu Local Council Development Area (LCDA), led by Chairman Honorable David Odunmbaku, took action to ensure smoother progress of the project. The reconstruction, handled by Hijay Associates Nigeria Limited, lasted eight weeks, after which normal business operations began to pick up.
With the roadwork nearing completion, traders are beginning to experience the benefits. Business owners who previously struggled with low customer turnout due to the poor road conditions are now seeing improvements.
A barber who has operated in the area for years, Isong Clement, said, “Before the road was fixed, many cars and buses avoided this route, which meant fewer potential customers stopping by.”
“Now, with the road in good shape, we’ve seen tremendous changes. More people pass through, and many new customers now stop by. The road has helped our business, and we are grateful to the government for the repairs,” he revealed.
Similarly, a fruit vendor near Ogba Bus Stop, Mrs. Adeola Mary, shared her optimism about the new development. “The road was in a terrible state before. Customers avoided this area because of the traffic and bad drainage. Now, we’re hopeful that the new road will bring more business,” she said.
Beyond immediate business benefits, the improved infrastructure is expected to have a broader impact. With better roads, movement around Ogba will become more efficient, reducing travel time for commuters. The enhanced accessibility could also lead to increased property values and attract new investments to the area.
While traders endured months of inconvenience, they now look forward to a revitalized business environment.
As normalcy gradually returns, both traders and commuters are set to enjoy the long-term advantages of a smoother, safer, and more accessible road network.
