In a decisive move to alleviate severe gridlock that had plagued Lagos over the past several days, the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, has reopened the Independence Bridge for vehicular traffic. The reopening, effective as of 3 PM on Friday, comes on the heels of urgent repair works initiated on the key artery that connects vital parts of Lagos Island.
The bridge had been abruptly closed for essential maintenance and structural rehabilitation without prior notice—a decision that led to widespread disruption and extensive traffic congestion across the city. Commuters experienced significant delays as alternative routes became choked with vehicles, prompting mounting public frustration and calls for immediate action.
In a press briefing captured on video Umahi reassured Lagosians that the reopening of the bridge was a critical step toward restoring normalcy on one of the city’s busiest routes. “By 3 PM today, the Independence Bridge will be open to the public,” he declared. “We are committed to ensuring that repair works continue in phases so that any structural issues can be permanently resolved without causing further inconvenience.”
Earlier in the week, officials had anticipated that the bridge would remain closed until the end of May to facilitate comprehensive repairs. However, the unplanned shutdown triggered chaotic traffic conditions, with motorists reporting delays of up to two hours on routes that typically require only minutes. “I was stranded in traffic for hours—it’s a relief to finally see progress,” one frustrated commuter remarked.
The Federal Controller of Works in Lagos, Engr. Olukorede Kesha, confirmed that while the bridge is now accessible, remedial measures will continue overnight to address areas that sustained damage during the initial repair phase. The phased approach is expected to maintain safety while easing the burden on the city’s already overtaxed road network.
In addition to the reopening, authorities have mapped out alternative routes to help ease the traffic flow during ongoing repair operations. The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) is set to enforce these measures, ensuring that drivers are directed along less congested paths while the work is finalized.
As the city slowly recovers from the disruption, Umahi’s swift intervention reveals the government’s commitment to responsive infrastructure management—a move welcomed by both residents and commercial operators alike.
