LAGOSIANS LAMENT OVER TRAFFIC FOLLOWING INDEPENDENCE BRIDGE CLOSURE
On April 2, 2025, Lagos experienced significant traffic congestion, primarily due to the closure of the Independence Bridge for emergency repairs. The Federal Government had announced the bridge’s closure from April 1 to May 2025 to facilitate essential maintenance.
The closure led to severe gridlock, especially during peak hours, affecting major routes such as Ahmadu Bello Way, Adeola Odeku Street, Alfred Rewane Road, and Awolowo Road. Commuters reported spending several hours in traffic, with some resorting to walking to their destinations.
In response to the escalating traffic chaos, the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, ordered the immediate reopening of the Independence Bridge on April 2, aiming to alleviate the congestion.
The Lagos State Government advised motorists to use alternative routes during the closure period. For instance, those heading to Victoria Island from Ahmadu Bello Way were directed to take Ozumba Mbadiwe Avenue inbound Akin Adesola Street, proceed to Falomo Roundabout, and link Obafemi Awolowo Road. Similarly, travelers from Ahmadu Bello Way to the Third Mainland Bridge were advised to go through Ozumba Mbadiwe Avenue inbound Akin Adesola Street, connect to Alfred Rewane Road, link Osborne Road, and access Ring Road.
Despite these measures, the traffic situation remained challenging throughout the day, with reports of standstill conditions in various parts of the city. The reopening of the Independence Bridge is expected to ease the congestion in the coming days.
WATCH VIDEO:
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DH-fO6fIGFK/?igsh=MWl2YWFoM2Fxem1jbg==
