The Federal Government has announced that the Ijora-Marina Bridge in Lagos State will be temporarily closed starting May 18, 2025, to allow for emergency maintenance works.
The bridge will remain shut for 21 days, during which repair works will be carried out to address critical structural issues.
This was disclosed in a statement released on Tuesday by Mrs. Olukorede Kesha, the Federal Controller of Works in Lagos. She stated that the closure would commence at 7:00 a.m. on Sunday, May 18.
According to her, while some parts of the bridge will be inaccessible throughout the repair period, other sections will undergo partial closures.
Kesha explained that the maintenance project involves elevating the bridge deck to replace damaged bearings and conduct other essential repair activities.
She stated that the initiative is aimed at improving the bridge’s safety and overall usability for both motorists and pedestrians.
Kesha said, “We understand the inconvenience this may cause, but this is a necessary step to keep the bridge in good condition and ensure the safety of all road users.”
She further mentioned that a comprehensive traffic diversion plan has been put in place, with officials deployed to assist motorists and help regulate traffic flow.
In her appeal to the public, Kesha urged residents, commuters, and nearby business operators to make necessary adjustments to their schedules and cooperate fully during the repair period.
She added, “Safety signs and traffic management tools will be put in place to minimise disruption. We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience and thank members of the public for their patience.”
It should be recalled that in April, the government had earlier ordered complete shutdown of the Ijora Bridge starting April 27, 2025, also to replace worn-out bearings located beneath the deck—a vital intervention aimed at preventing further structural deterioration.
At the time, Kesha highlighted the severe wear of the bridge’s bearings—key components designed to support and cushion the structure’s movement—resulting in increased vibrations.
The Ijora Bridge, which serves as a critical connection between the Ijora Causeway and the Apapa port area, plays a vital role in Lagos’s transportation network.
Although not in immediate danger of collapse, authorities have deemed the repair work urgent.
Kesha noted that approximately 50 bearings will be swapped out across three distinct segments as part of the concluding stage of a long-running restoration effort—the most significant upgrade since the bridge’s initial construction.
She acknowledged the disruption the closure may cause but stressed the importance of the work for public safety and the longevity of the bridge.
She also reassured road users that steps have been taken to reduce the impact on traffic as much as possible.
