Lagos to Divert Traffic on Independence Bridge for Repairs from Oct 16‑18

The Lagos State Government has announced a temporary traffic diversion on the Independence Bridge in Lagos Island to accommodate urgent asphalt repairs scheduled to begin on the night of Friday 16 October 2026 and continue through Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 October.

Repair Schedule The Federal Ministry of Works will carry out the maintenance, with the first phase starting at night on 16 October. Work will continue day and night on 17 October and finish day and night on 18 October.

Traffic Management To minimise disruption, the bridge will be partially closed in stages. Each section will close one lane while the other remains open, allowing motorists to cross the island. Officers from the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) will be deployed to direct traffic and reduce delays.

Public Guidance The government urged drivers to plan alternative routes and exercise patience during the diversion. Motorists were advised to obey traffic rules and cooperate with the traffic management plan.

Officials’ Statements The Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, confirmed that the diversion would affect both inbound and outbound lanes. He highlighted that the exercise is essential for maintaining the bridge’s structural integrity.

Impact The diversion is expected to affect commuters and commercial traffic across the island. Authorities have requested that the public remain patient and use the designated detour routes to reach their destinations.

Conclusion The Lagos State Government’s announcement aims to balance infrastructure maintenance with traffic flow, ensuring that the Independence Bridge remains safe for future use while minimising inconvenience to motorists.