Lagos Independence Bridge Closure: Plan Your Routes as Repairs Begin March 19th

Lagos motorists have been advised to brace for adjustments of key routes, as the federal government prepares to close the Independence Bridge on Lagos Island for critical repairs.

The Federal Ministry of Works announced the closure, which will commence on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, and is expected to last until the end of May 2025.

The move aims to facilitate essential maintenance and rehabilitation work to ensure the bridge’s long-term safety and stability.

Olukorede Kesha, the Federal Controller of Works in Lagos, confirmed the development in a statement released on Wednesday. According to Kesha, the closure will impact the stretch of the Independence Bridge heading toward Marina, affecting drivers traveling from Ahmadu Bello Way and Adeola Odeku toward key destinations like Marina, Eko Bridge, and Onikan by Zone 2. Motorists relying on this route are advised to plan their movements carefully and explore alternative pathways to avoid disruptions during the over two-month repair period.

The ministry emphasized that the closure is a necessary step to address wear and tear on the bridge, a vital artery in Lagos’ bustling road network. “The Federal Ministry of Works wishes to inform the motoring public of a planned closure of the Independence Bridge (Marina bound) commencing on Wednesday, March 19, 2025,” Kesha stated, underscoring the importance of the rehabilitation effort. She added that the project is part of broader efforts to maintain the integrity of road infrastructure across the state, a priority for ensuring public safety.

For commuters, the closure is likely to cause delays and increased traffic on surrounding roads, particularly given the bridge’s strategic location connecting Lagos Island’s commercial hubs. Kesha urged drivers to remain patient and proactive, recommending they seek out detour options well in advance.

While specific alternative routes were not outlined in the statement, motorists are encouraged to consult traffic updates or navigation tools to identify the least congested paths during the repair window.

The Federal Ministry of Works expressed regret for the inconvenience the closure may cause, acknowledging the disruption to daily routines in one of Nigeria’s busiest cities. “We apologize for any inconvenience this might cause and appreciate the public’s anticipated understanding and cooperation,” Kesha noted. She reiterated the ministry’s commitment to completing the repairs efficiently while delivering a safer, more reliable bridge by the end of May 2025.