Sanwo-Olu Flags Off Reconstruction of YABATECH’s Burnt Bakassi Hostel — Contractor Takes Over Project Site
By DAYO ADESULU
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has officially commenced the reconstruction of Yaba College of Technology’s (YABATECH) burnt Bakassi Hostel, as the contractor formally took over the project site to begin work.
The development marks the fulfillment of the governor’s promise made during the college’s 36th Convocation Lecture, where he pledged to rebuild the hostel that was destroyed by fire and had remained abandoned for several years.
The handover ceremony, held at YABATECH’s main campus in Yaba, was led by Engr. Adedayo Adeyemi, Project Coordinator at the Lagos State Ministry of Works and Infrastructure, on behalf of the state government. The event signified the government’s strong commitment to restoring vital student accommodation and improving tertiary education infrastructure across Lagos State.
Lagos Government Hands Over Site, Promises Swift Completion
Speaking at the event, Engr. Adeyemi stated that the ministry’s team was present to formally transfer the project site to the contractor for immediate commencement of construction. He was accompanied by senior ministry officials, including directors of civil, structural, and electrical services.
He explained that while the initial cost estimates were based on preliminary design sketches due to the absence of original drawings, the ministry welcomed YABATECH’s offer to provide updated architectural plans to ensure technical accuracy and compliance.
“All necessary documentation will be shared with the college to maintain transparency and coordination,” Adeyemi assured.
YABATECH Expresses Gratitude to Sanwo-Olu, Commends Renewed Commitment
Representing the Rector, Arc. Femi Lawal, Deputy Rector (Administration), expressed deep appreciation to Governor Sanwo-Olu and the Lagos State Government for reviving a long-abandoned project critical to the college’s development.
He described the day as a historic milestone for the institution, noting that the hostel reconstruction will enhance student welfare, strengthen YABATECH’s capacity for technical training, and expand its infrastructure base.
Arc. Lawal also called for transparent project supervision, requesting that the ministry share copies of all drawings, schedules, and correspondence to ensure effective monitoring. He nominated Engr. Adewale Azeez, Director of Works and Services, and the Director of Physical Planning to represent the college in site supervision and progress meetings.
“We are grateful to the Lagos State Government for keeping its word. We look forward to the project’s successful completion within the stipulated nine months,” he said.
Contractor Pledges Timely, Quality Delivery
Representing the contractor, Engr. Adeola Akinwale thanked both the Ministry of Works and YABATECH for their cooperation and pledged to deliver high-quality work within the agreed timeline.
“Our focus is to meet every specification and deliver the project as scheduled,” Akinwale affirmed.
Project to Boost Technical Education in Lagos
The Bakassi Hostel reconstruction, expected to be completed within nine months, forms part of Governor Sanwo-Olu’s broader initiative to upgrade educational infrastructure across Lagos State’s tertiary institutions and reinforce technical education.
In his remarks, YABATECH Rector, Dr. Engr. Ibraheem Abdul, commended Governor Sanwo-Olu for his visionary leadership and commitment to education, describing the gesture as “a timely intervention that restores hope to thousands of students.”
