Lagos state executes projects worth N1 Trillion - Fashola

The governor said the state needs funds to complete the projects.


The Lagos State Government said it is currently executing capital projects worth N1 trillion across the state.


The projects include the blue line intra-city rail system, roads, houses, jetties, water works, dredging of river and water channels, courts and classrooms.

Governor Babatunde Fashola, told newsmen on Saturday in Lagos that the state needed more funds to complete them before May 2015.

“All the projects cost over N1 trillion and we do not have enough funds for now.
“The projects are at the various stages of completion; the challenge before us is funds. We hope to deliver the projects before the end of the life of this administration,’’ he said.

“On the light rail project alone which has gulped billions of naira, 98 pillars that will carry the train will be constructed between National Theatre and Marina on the Island.

“It will be completed in phases; Mile 2 to National Theatre will be ready this year.’’

Fashola said the government had awarded the second phase of the project, including the rail and the 10-lane road expansion from Mile two to Okokomaiko, to China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC).

According to the governor, 11 pedestrian bridges will be provided
 on the expressway.

On water transportation, Fashola said the rehabilitation of three jetties at Badore, Mile two and Pakodo, had been completed, adding that ferries would be provided for private operators to transport residents.

Asked if the state had prosecuted owners and developers of collapsed buildings, he said police report was needed for every collapsed building for effective prosecution of offenders.

“To prosecute someone for criminal negligence and murder is not easy. For instance, two or three-count charge would take a minimum of two years to prosecute under our criminal justice system.

“For effective prosecution, one count charge may do, but we need police report to prosecute them. It is not easy.

“Currently, we are awaiting police report on the house that collapsed during the week at Ogudu to prosecute the owner,” he said.
(NAN)