The Lagos State Government has announced a partnership with MTN Nigeria to redevelop the Obalende under-bridge area into a modern and well-organised transport hub known as the Y’ELLO Bus Park.
The announcement was made by the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr Tokunbo Wahab, who said the project is part of the state’s efforts to reclaim public spaces and improve urban transportation and environmental standards.
According to Wahab, the redevelopment will convert what was once a neglected and unsafe space into a functional, secure, and community-friendly facility designed to serve commuters, residents, and transport operators in the Obalende area.
The Obalende under-bridge has for many years been known for traffic congestion, poor sanitation, illegal waste dumping, and security concerns. The area serves as a major transport link between Ikoyi, Victoria Island, Lagos Island, and other parts of the state, with thousands of commuters passing through daily.
Government officials said the new Y’ELLO Bus Park will help bring order to the transport system in the area by providing a structured and regulated terminal for buses and other commercial vehicles.
The project will include an organised bus terminal where vehicles can load and offload passengers in a controlled manner. This is expected to reduce traffic chaos and improve safety for road users.
In addition to the transport facilities, the bus park will feature over 60 public toilet fixtures to improve hygiene and address the long-standing problem of open defecation in the area. Kiosks will also be provided to support small businesses and create economic opportunities for local residents.
The redevelopment will also include a recycling drop-off station to encourage proper waste disposal and promote environmental responsibility. Officials said the recycling station would help reduce illegal dumping of waste around the under-bridge and nearby waterways.
A road camp will be provided for sweepers from the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), as well as for security agencies operating in the area. This is expected to improve cleanliness and enhance security around the facility.
Wahab said the design of the Y’ELLO Bus Park places strong emphasis on safety, health, and visual appeal. Solar-powered street lights will be installed across the facility to improve visibility at night and reduce dark corners that could encourage criminal activities.
The improved lighting will also support the use of closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras, which will be installed to monitor activities within the park and improve security for commuters and workers.
To address sanitation and environmental concerns, the project will include a biodigester system for managing wastewater generated within the park. This system is designed to treat waste in an environmentally friendly way and reduce pollution.
The commissioner said the inclusion of a biodigester shows the state’s commitment to sustainable development and modern waste management practices.
As part of efforts to reduce the project’s carbon footprint, solar panels will be installed to provide clean and renewable energy for the facility. Tree planting is also planned to improve air quality, provide shade, and enhance the overall look of the environment.
Wahab described the partnership with MTN Nigeria as an example of effective collaboration between the public and private sectors. He said such partnerships are important for delivering infrastructure projects that meet the needs of a growing city like Lagos.
MTN Nigeria, one of the country’s leading telecommunications companies, has in recent years supported several urban renewal and social development projects as part of its corporate social responsibility.
The Lagos State Government has been working to regenerate under-bridge spaces across the state, turning them into useful facilities such as parks, markets, and transport terminals. Similar projects have been carried out in areas like Ojuelegba, Agege, and Oshodi.
Officials said the Obalende project aligns with the state’s broader transport and environmental policies aimed at improving mobility, reducing congestion, and creating cleaner public spaces.
Residents and commuters in the area have welcomed the announcement, expressing hope that the redevelopment will address long-standing issues of disorder and insecurity.
“This place has needed attention for a long time,” said a commercial bus driver who operates in Obalende. “If this project is done well, it will make our work easier and safer.”
The Lagos State Government said construction work will be carried out in phases to minimise disruption to traffic and daily activities in the area.
As Lagos continues to grow in population and economic activity, officials say projects like the Y’ELLO Bus Park are necessary to ensure the city remains functional, safe, and liveable.
Wahab said the Obalende redevelopment reflects the government’s determination to build a cleaner, safer, and more resilient Lagos, where public spaces are properly managed and serve the needs of all residents.
“With the support of our partners, we are reclaiming public spaces and turning them into assets for the people,” he said.