In a significant development aimed at easing the burden of road users, the Oyo State Government has officially opened the first phase of the Olodo Bridge for pedestrians. This long-awaited milestone comes as a relief to residents and commuters who have faced challenges since the bridge’s collapse due to heavy rains in July 2023. With plans to open the bridge for vehicular movement in the coming weeks, the government’s commitment to infrastructure development and citizen welfare in the state is evident.
According to a press release from the Special Adviser on Media to Oyo State Governor, Mr. Sulaiman Olanrewaju, the state’s Commissioner for Public Works, Infrastructure, and Transport, Professor Dahud Kehinde Shangodoyin, led an inspection of the project. Professor Shangodoyin emphasized Governor ‘Seyi Makinde’s dedication to ensuring the welfare of citizens, stating that the opening of the bridge demonstrates this commitment.
The collapse of the old Olodo Bridge on July 23, 2023, disrupted transportation in the area, causing inconvenience to pedestrians and motorists. However, with the ongoing reconstruction project, progress has been made, and one side of the bridge has now been opened for pedestrians. Commissioner Shangodoyin assured that construction work would continue on the second side to ensure timely completion of the project.
“The governor has directed that this bridge should be completed and be used by our people. And, today, I am delighted that we are opening it for pedestrians,” stated Commissioner Shangodoyin. He further explained that while pedestrians can currently use the bridge, motorists will have to wait until the approach on the bridge cures within the next two weeks before vehicular movement can commence.
In urging caution, Commissioner Shangodoyin emphasized the need for safety, stating, “We don’t want Okadas and Micras to cross the bridge for now. We want both approaches to cure for 14 days before we allow vehicles to pass on the bridge.”
Residents of Olodo Bank Area expressed their gratitude to Governor Makinde for addressing the challenges faced by road users in the area. Mrs. Elizabeth Olalowo, Reverend Moses Adebisi, and Mrs. Omolola Joshua all conveyed their relief at the opening of the bridge, acknowledging the efforts of the state government in ameliorating their suffering.
The opening of the Olodo Bridge’s first phase marks a significant step forward in improving transportation infrastructure in Oyo State, with the government’s commitment to completing the project in a timely manner being a reassuring sign for residents and commuters alike.
