FG Shuts Down Independence Bridge for Repairs Starting April 1

By Achimi muktar

LAGOS – Brace for heavy traffic! The Federal Government has announced the closure of the Marina-bound section of Independence Bridge in Lagos for critical repairs, beginning April 1 and lasting until the end of May 2025.

The Federal Controller of Works in Lagos, Mrs. Olukorede Kesha, confirmed the development, stating that the rehabilitation is essential to maintaining the bridge’s structural integrity and longevity.

“This closure is necessary to ensure the safety of motorists and the durability of the bridge,” Kesha emphasized, reassuring commuters that the government is committed to completing the project on schedule to restore normal traffic flow.

Traffic Nightmare? Here’s What You Need to Know

The bridge closure will significantly impact movement from Ahmadu Bello Way and Adeola Odeku toward Marina, Eko Bridge, and Onikan, causing potential gridlock in the already congested city.

Motorists are advised to plan their routes ahead of time and use the following alternative roads to navigate the disruption:

✅ Heading to Victoria Island? Take Ozumba Mbadiwe Avenue, then connect Akin Adesola Street to Falomo Roundabout and Obafemi Awolowo Road.

✅ Going to 3rd Mainland Bridge? Use Alfred Rewane Road through Osborne Road to link the Ring Road.

✅ Need to reach CMS/Inner Marina? Divert through Ozumba Mbadiwe Avenue, link Akin Adesola Street, then use Falomo Roundabout and Obafemi Awolowo Road.

✅ From CMS to Ahmadu Bello Way? Access will be maintained through alternative routes.

Meanwhile, a separate traffic diversion announced by the Lagos State Government remains in effect until May 26, further restricting movement from NOUN through Bonny Camp Bridge to Independence Bridge. The service lane at Bonny Camp Underpass (inbound Independence Bridge) is also closed.

Authorities Plead for Cooperation

Mrs. Kesha apologized for the inconvenience and urged motorists to cooperate with traffic officials during the period.

With Lagos already notorious for traffic congestion, this bridge closure is expected to cause major disruptions. Commuters are strongly advised to leave home earlier than usual and follow designated routes to avoid frustration.

Will this repair work actually be completed on time, or will Lagosians face extended traffic woes? Only time will tell.