Minister of Works, David Umahi, has announced that the Independence Bridge in Lagos will be reopened to traffic by 3 PM on Friday, following days of closure that led to citywide gridlock.
Addressing journalists in Lagos on Thursday evening, Umahi confirmed that essential repairs on the bridge’s damaged section would be completed within hours. He also disclosed that additional inspections would take place in two weeks to monitor the structural integrity and assess any further maintenance needs.
The bridge was initially closed earlier in the week for maintenance and rehabilitation work. However, Umahi stated he was not informed of the closure ahead of time. The Federal Controller of Works in Lagos, Olukorede Kesha, had previously communicated that the closure would extend until May.
The abrupt shutdown brought much of Lagos to a standstill, with many commuters arriving at their destinations in the early hours of the morning due to overwhelming traffic congestion. The public backlash prompted the minister to intervene, ordering an expedited reopening while affirming that outstanding repair work would resume later.
Providing an update on-site, Umahi stated, “Let me announce that those heading to work tomorrow can rest assured. By 3 PM, this bridge will be open. We are working through the night to make that happen.”
He also mentioned that around 50% of the planned work has already been completed and noted that the current fixes may prove durable enough to serve as permanent solutions.
