Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has attributed the delayed opening of the Opebi-Odo Iya Alaro Bridge to the installation of a large steel monument intended to reflect the area’s cane-weaving heritage.
The governor made an unscheduled visit to the project site to inspect the work and seek an explanation for the missed opening date. He said he had previously expected the bridge to admit traffic by the end of September, but the additional architectural feature required more time and careful engineering work.
According to Sanwo-Olu, the monument was conceived during the final phase of the bridge project rather than included in its original design. It is intended to represent the hands involved in cane weaving, a craft historically associated with the location.
The governor described the structure as approximately 25 metres high and involving about 300 tonnes of steel. He said three of four major components had been installed and that the overall installation was about 80 per cent complete.
He maintained that the bridge could not safely be opened to motorists until the remaining component was secured and related finishing work completed. The governor asked residents to be patient while contractors carried out the final stages.
Sanwo-Olu said the project would improve connectivity and commuting conditions while also creating a landmark with cultural and tourism value. He expressed confidence that motorists would be able to use the bridge before the Christmas holiday period.
The latest delay nevertheless raises questions about the effect of late design changes on project schedules and costs. No revised total project cost or firm opening date was provided in the supplied account.
The governor urged construction teams and state officials to accelerate work without compromising safety.
