Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has flagged off the reconstruction of the Bakassi Hostel at Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH), several years after it was gutted by fire.
The project formally commenced with the handover of the site to the contractor by officials of the Lagos State Ministry of Works and Infrastructure, marking the fulfilment of a promise made by the governor during the institution’s 36th Convocation Lecture last year.
Speaking during the handover ceremony at the college’s main campus in Yaba, Engr. Adedayo Adeyemi, Project Coordinator from the ministry, said the development reflects the government’s commitment to revitalising infrastructure in tertiary institutions across the state.
“This handover marks the official commencement of work on the site. We are working closely with all stakeholders to ensure timely and seamless execution,” he said.
Adeyemi disclosed that preliminary designs were used for the initial cost estimates due to the unavailability of the original structural drawings at the time of contract award. However, he welcomed YABATECH’s readiness to submit updated architectural plans to ensure technical compliance.
He was accompanied by senior officials of the ministry, including directors of electrical, civil, and structural services.
In his remarks, Deputy Rector (Administration), Arc. Femi Lawal, who represented the Rector, described the event as a landmark moment in the institution’s history.
“This reconstruction will restore a vital student facility and enhance our capacity to train technically skilled graduates. We thank the Lagos State Government for this timely intervention,” he said.
Lawal requested that the ministry provide the college with all relevant drawings, schedules, and project correspondence to ensure transparency and effective coordination. He nominated Engr. Adewale Azeez, Director of Works and Services, and the Director of Physical Planning as the college’s representatives for site supervision and project meetings.
He reaffirmed the college’s full cooperation with both the ministry and the contractor, expressing confidence that the project would be completed within the stipulated nine-month timeframe.
On behalf of the contractor, Engr. Adeola Akinwale commended the state government and the college for their cooperation, assuring that the hostel would be delivered on time and in accordance with specifications.
“Our focus is to meet the project standards and complete the work within schedule,” he said.
Also speaking, the Rector of YABATECH, Dr. Engr. Ibraheem Abdul, praised Governor Sanwo-Olu for honouring his promise. He extended the college’s appreciation to the state government through the delegation from the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure.
The reconstruction of the Bakassi Hostel is part of the Sanwo-Olu administration’s ongoing efforts to upgrade infrastructure across Lagos State’s tertiary institutions and strengthen technical education in the state.
