Lagos Government Partners MTN to Redevelop Obalende Under-Bridge into Modern Y’ELLO Bus Park

Task Manager

The Lagos State Government has unveiled plans to redevelop the Obalende under-bridge area through a public-private partnership with telecommunications company MTN Nigeria. The redevelopment project will convert the area into a modern and well-structured transport hub to be known as the Y’ELLO Bus Park, marking another step in the state’s efforts to reclaim and optimise underutilised public spaces.

The announcement was made in a statement addressed to Lagos residents, in which the state government described the initiative as a strategic intervention designed to transform what had become a notorious and degraded environment into a functional, safe, and community-oriented transport facility.

According to the government, the Obalende under-bridge redevelopment will feature an organised and regulated bus terminal intended to improve traffic flow and commuter experience in one of Lagos’ busiest corridors. In addition to transport infrastructure, the project will include a recycling drop-off station, a dedicated road camp for operatives of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), security agencies, and more than 60 public toilet fixtures to improve sanitation in the area.

Other facilities planned for the bus park include kiosks and essential commuter amenities designed to support both daily transport users and nearby residents. The government said the design prioritises safety, public health, and aesthetics, while also addressing long-standing environmental and security concerns associated with the Obalende axis.

As part of the security framework, the park will be equipped with solar-powered lighting to improve night-time visibility, reduce blind spots, and enhance the effectiveness of closed-circuit television (CCTV) surveillance. Officials say these measures are expected to discourage criminal activities and improve overall safety under the bridge and its surrounding areas.

Environmental sustainability is also a key component of the project. A biodigester system is being introduced to manage wastewater generated within the park in a sustainable manner, while a dedicated recycling station is expected to reduce illegal waste dumping that has historically plagued the area. The project also includes the installation of solar panels to support energy efficiency and reduce the facility’s carbon footprint.

In line with climate and urban resilience goals, tree planting is planned around the park to improve air quality and enhance the visual appeal of the environment. The government said these measures reflect its broader commitment to climate responsibility and sustainable urban development.

The Obalende under-bridge has for decades been associated with traffic disorder, informal commercial activities, and security challenges. Several past administrations have attempted different interventions in the area, with varying degrees of success. The Lagos State Government said the new partnership-driven approach is intended to provide a more durable and well-managed solution.

Officials noted that the Y’ELLO Bus Park project aligns with the state’s wider agenda to modernise transport infrastructure, improve urban sanitation, and strengthen public-private collaboration in service delivery. The involvement of MTN Nigeria, the government said, reflects the growing role of private sector participation in urban renewal initiatives across the state.

The government further stated that the project demonstrates its resolve to ensure that public spaces are not only reclaimed but redesigned to be functional, sustainable, and beneficial to the broader population. Once completed, the bus park is expected to improve commuter safety, reduce congestion, and contribute to a cleaner and more orderly Obalende environment.

The Lagos State Government urged residents to support the initiative, describing it as part of a long-term effort to build a cleaner, safer, and more resilient city capable of meeting the demands of its growing population.