The Lagos State Government has reopened the Ogudu-Ifako Bridge after months of repair works, restoring full vehicular traffic on one of the city’s busiest transport corridors. The move follows the completion of rehabilitation on the bridge’s expansion joints, a critical measure to ensure safety and extend the lifespan of the infrastructure.
According to the state government, the repair project, initially slated for 101 days, was delivered in 78 days due to strong cooperation between contractors, security agencies, and residents. “We undertook this repair to guarantee safety. Thankfully, with the cooperation of the people, we have been able to deliver ahead of schedule,’’ said Olufemi Daramola, Special Adviser on Infrastructure.
Daramola emphasized that the early delivery was achieved without compromising quality, warning that leaving the defects unattended could have endangered motorists and further weakened the bridge. He commended Lagos residents for their patience during the partial closure, which had caused significant inconvenience across the transport network.
The bridge was officially declared open after inspection by Daramola and Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Seun Osiyemi. Both officials certified the repair works and assured motorists that the bridge was safe and fully operational without restrictions.
Osiyemi applauded Lagosians for their support during the repair phase and linked the success to collective effort. “This success belongs to everyone. Lagosians endured the inconveniences and supported the process. We sincerely appreciate your perseverance and patience,’’ he said.
Officials revealed that government engineers will next focus on the Maza-Maza area, where similar maintenance projects are scheduled. The Ogudu-Ifako Bridge reopening is part of a wider state infrastructure renewal drive that has also seen work completed at Odo-Iyalaro and Apongbon bridges.
Osiyemi stressed that the administration is committed to delivering “safe, durable and sustainable infrastructure for a greater Lagos.” He urged residents to protect the facilities, reminding them that they are taxpayer-funded and designed for long-term benefits.
The repair journey has not been without difficulty. On June 24, 2025, the government announced traffic diversion plans ahead of the repairs, projected to last 110 days from June 28 to October 15 in eight phases affecting both lanes.
Works were temporarily suspended on September 3, 2025, after reports that traffic robbers and touts were exploiting gridlock caused by the diversions to attack trapped motorists. Authorities later resumed the second phase after introducing new measures to manage security and traffic flow.
The reopening is expected to ease congestion across the city and improve mobility for thousands of daily commuters. It signals the government’s effort to combine speed, safety, and resilience in addressing Lagos’s infrastructure needs.
As Lagos continues to expand, the durability and timely maintenance of transport corridors like the Ogudu-Ifako Bridge remain essential for supporting economic growth, easing traffic, and ensuring the safety of its residents.