The Federal Government has directed the immediate reopening of the Independence Bridge in Lagos, which was closed to traffic on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, for scheduled maintenance and rehabilitation work.
David Umahi, the Minister of Works, issued the directive to reopen the bridge, acknowledging the significant disruption its closure caused to traffic flow and economic activities across the city.
In a statement released on Wednesday night, Olukorede Kesha, the Federal Controller of Works in Lagos, confirmed that the ministry is actively working to implement palliative measures to restore the bridge’s motor ability. Kesha also expressed regret over the inconvenience the closure caused to commuters and appealed for public understanding and cooperation.
According to the ministry, comprehensive repair work on the bridge is still planned and will be carried out at a later date to ensure its structural integrity and long-term functionality.
The unexpected closure of the Independence Bridge led to severe traffic congestion, effectively bringing economic activities in Lagos to a standstill on Wednesday. The reopening of the bridge is expected to bring relief to residents and commuters, easing the heavy gridlock that had plagued the city.
