The Federal Government has announced a six-week partial closure of sections of the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway to facilitate critical bridge repair works on some of the busiest stretches of this major transport corridor linking Lagos to the interior of Nigeria.
Urgent Repairs to Critical Bridge Structures
The partial closure, set to last six weeks, is aimed at enabling urgent repairs on expansion joints — essential structural components that allow bridges to expand and contract safely — at three key bridges along the expressway:
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Kara Bridge
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Magboro Bridge
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Arepo–Punch Bridge
Expansion joints that have deteriorated over time were found to be in poor condition, with inspection reports highlighting significant wear and tear that poses safety risks and contributes to accidents along the busy route.
Government and Contractor Statements
Addressing journalists at Kara Bridge, Ogun State Federal Controller of Works, Michael Komolafe, explained that the closure was necessary to resume rehabilitation works earlier interrupted on parts of the road, particularly following complaints about heavy traffic congestion. He apologised to road users for the inconvenience such closures would cause and assured that improved traffic management systems would be in place throughout the construction period.
The Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, has directed that the repairs be treated as urgent to safeguard motorists and reduce crash risks tied to failing infrastructure.
The contractor handling the project — CBC Construction Company — confirmed that preparation and mobilisation activities would be finalised over the weekend, with full construction work set to begin on Monday. The work will be carried out in phases, with each of the three bridges expected to take about a week of focused work on each half of their respective expansion joints.
Progress and Phased Work Plan
According to statements from the contractor:
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Magboro Bridge and Arepo–Punch Bridge have already seen progress, with half of the work on the Lagos-boundsections completed.
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Kara Bridge’s Lagos-bound section has likewise been partially completed, and the focus will now shift to remaining parts, including sections on the Ibadan-bound lanes of all three bridges.
This phased approach aims to balance repair needs with traffic flow, allowing movement on unaffected sections while work continues.
Traffic Management and Motorist Guidance
To minimise disruption and ensure safety:
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Traffic control measures, including barriers, traffic signs, and warning lights, will be deployed around the work zones.
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The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), led by the Lagos State Sector Commander, Kehinde Hamzat, has urged motorists to exercise patience and comply with traffic rules, specifically cautioning against driving against traffic — a behaviour that will attract penalties.
The FRSC has also assured the public that arrangements are in place to facilitate smooth traffic flow during the construction period and to protect both commuters and workers on site.
Context: Importance of the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway
The Lagos–Ibadan Expressway is one of the most heavily trafficked road corridors, serving as a primary route for commercial and passenger traffic between Lagos, Ogun, Oyo and beyond. As a lifeline of economic activity, maintenance and safety of its bridges and pavement remain crucial to preventing economic loss and ensuring the safety of road users.
Bridge infrastructure, especially expansion joints, is vital for accommodating thermal movement, heavy loads, and daily stresses of traffic. When they fail or deteriorate, they can create dangerous depressions or gaps that contribute to accidents and vehicle damage — reasons cited by authorities for the prioritised works.
What Motorists Should Expect
Travel Advisory:
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Expect partial lane closures and potential slowdowns around Kara, Magboro, and Arepo–Punch bridges.
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Increased traffic management personnel and signage to redirect and manage vehicular flow.
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Compliance with traffic laws for safety and to avoid fines.
Timeline:
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Six weeks of repair activity, starting this coming Monday, with phased rehabilitation across the three affected bridges.
