NIGERIA: FG Announces Six-Week Partial Closure Of Lagos–Ibadan Expressway For Bridge Repairs

By Hamzat Ameenat, Lagos, Nigeria

The Federal Government has announced a six-week partial closure of sections of the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway to allow urgent repair work on key bridge expansion joints.

According to the Federal Ministry of Works, the rehabilitation will focus on Kara Bridge, Magboro Bridge, and the Arepo–Punch Bridge, where structural components have deteriorated and begun posing safety risks to motorists.

The Ogun State Federal Controller of Works, Michael Komolafe, said the decision followed assessments showing that the expansion joints had significantly weakened, contributing to accidents and traffic hazards.

He apologised for the anticipated inconvenience, noting that improved traffic management strategies would be implemented throughout the repair period.

Komolafe explained that earlier rehabilitation work on the Lagos-bound section of Kara Bridge had been suspended due to public complaints about prolonged congestion.

With fresh directives from the Minister of Works, David Umahi, the ministry will now resume the repairs in phases to minimise disruption.

Andy Duan, General Manager of CBC Construction Company, said mobilisation of equipment would begin immediately, with full construction expected to start early next week.

He disclosed that portions of the expansion joints on Magboro and Arepo–Punch bridges have already been completed, while half of the Lagos-bound section of Kara Bridge is finished.

Duan added that each phase of the repairs is expected to take about a week, with safety barriers, warning lights, and traffic control measures installed before diversion begins.

The Lagos State Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps, Kehinde Hamzat, assured motorists that personnel would be deployed to manage traffic flow. He warned against illegal lane violations and urged drivers to remain patient during the construction window.

Authorities described the closure as necessary to restore structural integrity, prevent crashes, and improve long-term safety along one of the country’s busies

t transport corridors.