The Lagos State Government has handed over Obalende Park to MTN Nigeria for redevelopment, marking a major step toward revitalising public infrastructure and improving environmental sustainability in the state.
Speaking at the official handover, the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, said the initiative is part of broader efforts to convert underutilised public spaces into functional and eco-friendly assets.
He explained that the project, being executed under MTN’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme, will see the park redesigned into a modern urban facility. The telecom company will also take responsibility for maintaining the Macgregor Canal throughout the duration of the project and beyond.
According to Wahab, the redevelopment will include key features such as a properly organised motor park, 60 public toilets, designated sleeping bays, and electric vehicle charging stations. The project is expected to be completed within 21 weeks.
He added that the state government had engaged transport operators within the park, assuring them that the redevelopment would not result in displacement.
Wahab emphasised that beyond improving the aesthetics of the area, the project is designed to enhance safety and eliminate criminal activities often associated with the location.
In a related development, the commissioner inspected ongoing drainage clearing operations on George Street in Elegbata following recent flooding in the Apongbon area. He attributed the flooding to heavy rainfall compounded by construction activities that obstructed water flow.
He said the government had moved swiftly to clear the drainage channels to restore proper flow into the lagoon and prevent future flooding.
The inspection team also visited the ongoing channelisation of System 1 at Odo Iya Alaro, following complaints from residents of Soluyi in Gbagada.
Describing System 1 as a critical drainage infrastructure established in 1974, Wahab noted that it serves as the largest primary channel for flood control across major parts of Lagos mainland, including Ogudu, Mende, Ojota, Ifako, Gbagada, and Maryland.
However, he expressed concern over increasing encroachment along the drainage corridor, which has significantly reduced its capacity, stressing the urgent need for expansion to meet current realities.
The commissioner was accompanied by the Special Adviser on Environment, Engr. Olakunle Rotimi-Akodu, alongside officials from key agencies involved in environmental management and urban maintenance.