The Lagos state government has announced traffic diversions across key routes in Victoria Island in preparation for the golden jubilee celebration of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), scheduled to take place from May 27 to 29.
The advisory, issued on Monday by Bolanle Ogunlola, deputy director of public affairs at the state ministry of transportation, is designed to facilitate smooth vehicular movement and help security around the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) and Eko Hotels and Suites, both of which are hosting high-profile activities during the three-day event.
President Bola Tinubu is expected to deliver a keynote address at Eko Hotels, focusing on the economic progress and integration achieved by the regional bloc over the past five decades.
Routes affected and alternative options
Motorists approaching Lagos Island or the mainland from the Eko Hotel roundabout are advised to use Adetokunbo Ademola road towards the Civic Centre, linking up with Ozumba Mbadiwe road. From there, they can proceed to Bonny Camp roundabout and turn right to access the Island or mainland.
Alternatively, drivers may opt for the Falomo ramp located near the Nigerian Law School to complete their journeys.
For those exiting Ajose Adeogun or Adetokunbo Ademola via the Eko Hotel roundabout, the advisory recommends using Sanusi Fafunwa street, continuing to Akin Adesola, and turning left at the junction to reach Ahmadu Bello Way or Adeola Odeku. A right turn at the same junction leads to Falomo Bridge or the Law School route.
Motorists departing from the Lagos Continental Hotel en route to Bonny Camp should take Kofo Abayomi street and connect to Kilimanjaro Junction on Ozumba Mbadiwe. From there, they can turn left to Bonny Camp or right towards Lekki.
Enhanced security and logistics
The government has assured the public that security will be heightened throughout the ECOWAS anniversary to protect dignitaries and ensure public order. Lagosians are encouraged to plan their movements in advance and comply with traffic officers’ directives during the event.
The ECOWAS golden jubilee is expected to draw regional leaders, diplomats, and key stakeholders from across West Africa, making Lagos a focal point of continental diplomacy for the duration of the celebrations.
BusinessDay