Massive gridlock imminent as Lagos shuts Ogunnusi Road for reconstruction

By Abimbola Aderinola

The Lagos State Government has released a comprehensive traffic management plan ahead of the commencement of Phase I reconstruction and expansion of Ogunnusi Road in Ikeja Local Government Area.

Commissioner for Transportation, Mr Oluwaseun Osiyemi, disclosed that the plan is designed to ensure seamless traffic flow while the Federal Ministry of Works undertakes the project, which spans from Ojodu-Berger Bus-Stop to Mobil Filling Station Junction (Ijaye/Agege bound).

Osiyemi said the reconstruction forms part of a broader initiative to upgrade the 9.0-kilometre dual carriage corridor between Ojodu-Berger Bus-Stop and Mobil Filling Station Junction, covering both inbound and outbound lanes.

He stated that the entire project, comprising Phases I and II, is scheduled to run from Friday, 6 March 2026 through Thursday, 6 January 2028.

According to him, Phase I will cover a 4.5-kilometre stretch from Ojodu-Berger Bus-Stop inward to Mobil Filling Station Junction (Ijaye/Agege bound), commencing on Friday, 6 March 2026 and expected to be completed by Saturday, 6 February 2027.

Osiyemi explained that to facilitate smooth execution of the works, there will be no vehicular access within the designated construction zone.

He added that motorists travelling inward Ijaye/Agege through Ogunnusi Road from Ojodu-Berger will be diverted to drive on a contraflow along the Ojodu-Berger bound carriageway for approximately one kilometre, after which they will regain access to the main carriageway to continue their journeys.

“Alternatively, motorists may use Dr Nurudeen Olowopopo Way to connect Otunba Jobifele Way, link Obafemi Awolowo Way and then access Lateef Jakande Road to reach their respective destinations,” Osiyemi stated.

The Commissioner further advised articulated vehicle and truck drivers from the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway heading towards Agege to divert through Ojota/Maryland, link Mobolaji Bank Anthony Way, access Kodesoh Street and connect Oba Akran Avenue to Guinness Roundabout, from where they can link Ogba Road through Pen Cinema and continue their journeys.

Osiyemi noted that motorists travelling from Ijaye/Agege towards Ojodu-Berger will experience through traffic. However, upon approaching the construction zone, they will be diverted into a contraflow with Ijaye/Agege bound traffic for approximately one kilometre before regaining full access beyond the work area.

On emergency arrangements, Osiyemi said the government has put measures in place to manage breakdowns and other incidents during the construction period.

“To ensure smooth traffic flow and prompt incident response, emergency tow vehicles will be stationed strategically within the corridor to provide quick recovery operations throughout the construction period,” he added.

Advising motorists, Osiyemi urged road users to remain patient and comply strictly with traffic signs and directives from traffic management officials deployed along the corridor.

He noted that the temporary traffic adjustments are critical to guarantee the safe and efficient execution of the reconstruction and expansion works, which are aimed at delivering improved travel experience for residents and commuters in the axis.