The Managing Director of the Federal Housing Authority (FHA), Mr. Oyetunde Ojo, has announced the commencement of road rehabilitation in Festac Town, Lagos, beginning with the renovation of 1st Avenue.
This move is part of a broader effort to address the town’s infrastructural decay and restore its former glory.
During an inspection on Thursday, August 22, Mr. Ojo highlighted that the FHA is also focusing on the demolition of structures with integrity issues within the town. He emphasized that restoring Festac Town, which he described as more than just an estate but a national monument, is a priority for the Authority.
In a statement released by the FHA on Friday, it was disclosed that the rehabilitation will be executed in phases. The plan includes the upgrade of the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd gates, clearing illegal structures, installing solar street lights, and performing palliative road repairs.
Mr. Ojo also urged residents to cooperate with the FHA by paying their statutory fees, which are crucial for the Authority’s operations independent of government appropriations. He further explained that the ongoing verification exercise is aimed at updating the FHA’s database, with only verified properties being recognized after the exercise.
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In addition to the road rehabilitation, Mr. Ojo warned that buildings on 6th Avenue showing visible signs of structural failure will be demolished. Property owners who choose to demolish their unsafe structures will retain their land titles, while those who fail to do so risk losing their land titles if the FHA undertakes the demolition.
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The rehabilitation efforts include the demolition of the old 1st gate and the construction of a new modern structure, alongside the installation of solar street lights along 1st Avenue. The 3.2km stretch of 2nd Avenue is also set for repairs, with an estimated cost of 7 billion Naira. While the FHA aims to secure federal government support for this project, interim palliative measures will be implemented to ensure the road remains usable.
Mr. Ojo reiterated the FHA’s commitment to restoring Festac Town to its former status, calling on residents and stakeholders to support the ongoing initiatives.
