Lagos Reopens Ogudu-Ifako Bridge After Early Completion of Repairs
The Lagos State Government has reopened the Ogudu-Ifako Bridge to full traffic after completing repairs on its expansion joints ahead of schedule. The bridge, which had been partially closed for several months, is a critical link along one of the state’s busiest transport corridors.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the project was originally scheduled to last 101 days but was completed in 78 days. The Special Adviser on Infrastructure, Olufemi Daramola, and the Commissioner for Transportation, Seun Osiyemi, inspected the works on Tuesday before officially reopening the bridge.
Daramola explained that defects on the expansion joints, if not addressed, could have posed safety risks to motorists and weakened the bridge. He attributed the early completion to effective coordination among contractors, security agencies, and cooperation from residents.
“This repair was undertaken to safeguard lives and infrastructure. With the patience of Lagosians and the commitment of all stakeholders, we have delivered ahead of schedule,” Daramola said.
Resident Endurance and Government Commitment
The Commissioner for Transportation, Seun Osiyemi, acknowledged the inconvenience caused by the partial closure and commended residents for their patience. He noted that the project aligns with the state’s broader infrastructure renewal plan, which has included similar interventions at Odo-Iyalaro and Apongbon bridges.
Osiyemi urged residents to protect public infrastructure, stressing that the facilities are taxpayer-funded and designed to deliver long-term benefits. “This success belongs to everyone. The endurance and cooperation of Lagosians made this possible,” he stated.
Broader Infrastructure Renewal Agenda
The Ogudu-Ifako Bridge is among several projects under Lagos State’s ongoing infrastructure maintenance programme. The government has announced that the next phase of work will focus on the Maza-Maza corridor, where similar structural repairs are planned.
The bridge repairs were initially expected to run for 110 days across eight phases, beginning in June 2025. However, the government rescheduled the second phase in September following concerns over traffic congestion and reports of criminal activities around the diversion points.
Looking Ahead
The reopening of the Ogudu-Ifako Bridge marks another milestone in Lagos State’s commitment to strengthening urban infrastructure and enhancing road safety. With additional repair projects scheduled, the government has reiterated its call for continued public cooperation to ensure timely delivery and sustainability of road assets.
