The Lagos State Government has announced a traffic diversion plan to allow for emergency repairs on the Independence/Mekwen Bridge, which connects motorists inbound Marina and CMS.
The closure will take effect from Wednesday, March 19, and will last until Monday, May 26.
In a statement on Sunday issued by the Commissioner for Transportation, Mr Oluwaseun Osiyemi, the government explained that the repairs are part of the Federal Ministry of Works’ rehabilitation efforts, necessitating the closure of key routes.
The affected areas include the section from the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) through Bonny Camp Bridge to Independence Bridge, which will be fully closed, as well as the Bonny Camp Underpass Bridge (inbound Independence Bridge), which will also be shut down. However, the service lane from Ahmadu Bello Way to Ozumba Mbadiwe will remain open to motorists.
To ease movement during the period, alternative routes have been provided. Motorists heading to Victoria Island are advised to take Ozumba Mbadiwe to Akin Adesola, then proceed to Falomo Roundabout, Obafemi Awolowo Road, and Ring Road.
Those travelling towards the Third Mainland Bridge can use Ozumba Mbadiwe through Akin Adesola to Alfred Rewane, then continue through Osborne to Ring Road.
For those navigating to Inner Marina or CMS, the recommended route is Ozumba Mbadiwe to Akin Adesola, then through Falomo Roundabout to Obafemi Awolowo Road, continuing via J.K. Randle or King George V Road. Meanwhile, full access will be maintained from Inner Marina and CMS to Ahmadu Bello Way.
The officers of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) will be deployed to ensure the smooth flow of vehicles and minimise disruptions. The state government has urged motorists to cooperate with traffic officials and remain patient throughout the repair period.
“The Lagos State Government has announced a traffic diversion plan for emergency repairs on the Independence/Mekwen Bridge (inbound Marina/CMS) from Wednesday, 19th March, to Monday, 26th May 2025,” Osiyemi said.
“LASTMA will manage traffic throughout the project. Motorists are urged to be patient as the closure supports the Federal Ministry of Works’ rehabilitation efforts,” he added.
