Residents of Igbo-Eletu, Ajaye, Zenith, Royal Palm City, and Kosobameji Community Development Areas (CDAs), Whitesand in Igando-Ikotun LCDA, Lagos, have declared their readiness and support for the construction of the Olanrewaju Badmax collector drain phase 3 in the community.

The residents, who spoke through their leaders at the stakeholders’ meeting held on Saturday with officials from the Lagos State Ministry of Environment and Water Resources, pledged their maximum cooperation for the developmental project.

The meeting, held at the request of the ministry, was attended by the lawmaker representing Alimosho Federal Constituency in the green chamber, Hon. Ganiyu Ayuba, the Chairman of Igando-Ikotun LCDA, Comrade Lasisi Akinsanya, the Council Vice Chairman, Hon. Mojisola Badmus, among other dignitaries and leaders of the various CDAs.

In his address, the Director of the Drainage Construction/Dredging Department, Engr. Ganiu Ajadi, noted that the interactive session was important to keep the residents informed of the impending development and to seek their cooperation.

Ajadi made it known that the contractor has been advanced by 60% noting that the construction which will commence soon will last for a period of twelve months.

Speaking about the importance of the drainage, the director explained that the development was conceived by the ministry over a decade ago to effectively and sustainably address the issue of recurring floods in the community noting that it will complete the previous development.

This is as he appealed to the residents for their cooperation with the contractor and the state government while the construction work lasts.

Regarding the demolition of obstructions, Ajadi assured that the project has been carefully designed to minimize removal and that the ministry will work closely with the community to ensure maximum cooperation.

“When development is coming, it will affect some of us, and that is why we are saying that we must let you know. We have awarded this contract, we have mobilized the contractor, and now we want to commence. When we commence, some properties will be affected, so please accommodate us to solve this environmental problem.

“Whatever we can do, we will do. We will make every effort to minimize removal because what we are doing is for you. Whatever efforts we can make, we will, and we are doing this project in conjunction with you so that everyone will be involved in the development.

“You will know our contractor, but we do not want you to disturb him. If you have any issues, talk to our resident engineer. If he cannot solve your problem, escalate it to the coordinator. If he cannot solve your problem, go to the director. If I cannot solve your problem, go to the permanent secretary. If he cannot solve your problem, go to the commissioner. If one layer cannot solve your issue, escalate it to the next layer. Do not disturb the contractor,” Ajadi said.

Describing the over 3-kilometer-long drainage project, the director explained that it will be completed in two phases.

According to him the first phase is 3m x 1.2m, while the second phase, which will lead to the FESTAC Canal, will be 4m x 1.2m, adding that the project will be a full concrete drain.

“The project involves constructing a full concrete drain. We have learned from previous experiences, and we are applying that knowledge here. The contractor will start from the downtown area, not upstream, so that the water will flow naturally rather than having to follow the water.”

Responding to questions about their views on the imminent project, the resident of the community gave a resounding affirmation for the commencement, promising unwavering support.

On his part, the council chairman, Comrade Lasisi Akinsaya described the project as a laudable intervention from the state governor, urging residents to cooperate with the contractor and take ownership upon completion.

“My appeal to the residents is that they should seize this opportunity and cooperate with the contractor so that the project can be completed efficiently. They should also take ownership of the project upon completion and cherish it,” the council boss said.

The House of Representatives member echoed a similar sentiment, urging residents to cooperate as he assured them of his continued commitment to qualitative representation in the green chamber.

Speaking on behalf of the community, the Chairman of Igbo-Eletu CDA, Hon. Kazeem Ilelaboye, described the project as long overdue, assuring that maximum support would be given to the contractor for timely completion. He also commended the state governor and the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Hon. Tokunbo Wahab, for the development.

On his part, the Chairman of Ajaye CDA, Mr Seyi Adekoya assured that residents will see to the proper maintenance of the project upon completion.