The decision of the Federal Government to release the Trunk-A road from Oshodi to Muritala Muhammad International Airport to Lagos state government for reconstruction is one of the trail blazing move that would standout for all the time.
The lack of attention to the deplorable state of this road and other roads like Lagos-Ibadan express road by past governments left very much to be desired.
It befuddles the mind how a country could so neglect her first and most strategic international airport thereby inhibiting the tourist appeal and the commercial architecture of the facility as a crucial gateway to global trade and investment.
The approval of the release of the airport comes in a confluence of variables accentuated in the interplay of unmistakable developmental strides of the Lagos state government under the indefatigable Governor Akinwunmi Ambode and a rare opportunity provided through a service oriented governance philosophy at the center as being piloted by the Acting Vice President Yemi Osinbajo.
The international airport is a national monument that plays host to diverse economic interests spread across the country. This synergy, therefore, promises to foster inclusive utility across national spectrum.
Airports are global tourist signatures of any host country and speak volumes of the cosmopolitan mindset of any government.
All eyes are on Lagos state to take delivery and execute an aesthetic masterpiece that would trump the standards exhibited in Dubai and in western corridors. Decrepit side attractions from Oshodi to the Airport should either be evacuated or shielded from visibility.
Other state governments of the federation should borrow a leaf from Lagos State and partner the Federal Government and fellow states on developmental initiatives of mutual benefits. Lagos had done this before with Kebbi State and Lake Rice became a household item.
► Bukola Ajisola wrote via [email protected]
