Gridlock: Lagos Independence Bridge to reopen Friday – Umahi

The Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, has announced that the Independence Bridge in Lagos will be reopened to vehicular traffic by 3 PM on Friday following accelerated repair efforts.

Speaking to journalists in Lagos on Thursday evening, Umahi assured residents that the critical section of the bridge currently under maintenance would be restored in time for public use, with a follow-up inspection scheduled for two weeks.

The bridge had been abruptly closed earlier in the week for urgent repairs, a decision Umahi revealed was made without his prior knowledge.

The Federal Controller of Works in Lagos, Engr. Olukorede Kesha, had previously stated that the closure would extend until the end of May, citing the need for comprehensive rehabilitation.

The unannounced shutdown caused severe gridlock across Lagos Island, leaving many commuters stranded or forced to arrive at their destinations hours later than planned.

In response to growing public frustration, Umahi issued a directive on Wednesday for the immediate reopening of the bridge, emphasizing that repair works would continue in phases without halting traffic.

“By 3 PM, Friday, this bridge will be open to the public, to the glory of God,” Umahi stated. “Our team will work overnight to ensure this is achieved. I encourage commuters to resume normal use of the route from that time.”

The Minister further revealed that approximately 50 percent of the maintenance work had already been completeD.

He added, “Given the quality and scope of what we’ve done, this may very well serve as a lasting solution.”