The Lagos State Government has announced the temporary closure of the Independence/Mekwen Bridge, inbound Marina/CMS, for emergency repairs.
The closure, set to last two months, will begin on Wednesday, March 19, and end on Monday, May 26, 2025.
In a statement issued on Sunday, March 16, Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, provided details of the closure.
He stated that during the repair period, the section of the road from the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) through Bonny Camp Bridge to Independence Bridge will be closed to vehicles.
Additionally, motorists will not be able to use the Bonny Camp Underpass Bridge service lane inbound Independence Bridge.
However, the service lane from Ahmadu Bello Way to Ozumba Mbadiwe Avenue will remain accessible to traffic.
To minimize disruption, the Lagos State Government has provided alternative routes for motorists.
Those heading to Victoria Island from Ahmadu Bello Way are advised to take Ozumba Mbadiwe Avenue inbound Akin Adesola Street, proceed to Falomo Roundabout, and then connect to Obafemi Awolowo Road to access Ring Road.
For those traveling to 3rd Mainland Bridge, the recommended route is through Ozumba Mbadiwe Avenue inbound Akin Adesola Street, Alfred Rewane Road to Osborne Road, and then onto Ring Road.
Similarly, motorists heading to Inner Marina and CMS will be redirected through Ozumba Mbadiwe Avenue inbound Akin Adesola Street, with connections to Falomo Roundabout, Obafemi Awolowo Road, and J.K. Randle Road/King George V Road.
The commissioner reassured residents that the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) would be actively working to manage traffic along the affected routes.
“LASTMA officers will be deployed to strategic points to ensure smooth traffic flow and assist motorists navigating the alternative routes,” Osiyemi stated.
The closure, according to authorities, is essential to ensure the structural integrity of the bridge and prevent potential road hazards.
The government has emphasized that the repairs are necessary to improve road conditions, enhance safety, and prevent accidents.
Meanwhile, Lagosians have been urged to plan their journeys ahead of time and explore available alternative routes to avoid congestion.
Commuters are also encouraged to follow traffic updates and advisories issued by the relevant agencies.
However, with repairs scheduled to last until late May, motorists and residents are advised to exercise patience while authorities work on restoring the bridge to optimal condition.
