The Lagos State Government has reopened the Ogudu Ifako Bridge after completing repair works on 400 meters of its four expansion joints.
The bridge was closed to vehicular traffic on June 28 to enable construction. According to Olufemi Daramola, Special Adviser on Infrastructure, the repairs were critical to ensuring motorists’ safety and preventing further damage.
The project, initially scheduled for 101 days, was completed in just 73 days, ahead of schedule. Daramola commended residents for their endurance during the partial closure, stressing that the bridge is now fully opened to vehicular movement without restrictions. “We undertook this repair to guarantee safety. Thankfully, with the cooperation of the people, we have been able to deliver ahead of schedule,” he said.
The reopening is expected to ease traffic congestion along one of Lagos’s busiest routes, cut travel time, and reduce fuel costs. A commercial driver, Mr. Taofeek Shittu, expressed relief, saying, “Traffic was terrible. This reopening is a big relief for us.” Similarly, a commuter, Ms. Adebisi Adesesan, noted that the reopening would ease traffic congestion, saying, “We suffered long hours during the closure, but this is worth it”.
The state government has announced that similar works would begin soon in the Maza Maza area as part of its wider infrastructure renewal drive. Commissioner for Transportation, Seun Osiyemi, expressed gratitude to Lagos residents for their understanding, promising that the state government would continue its infrastructure renewal drive. “This success belongs to everyone. Lagosians endured the inconveniences and supported the process. We sincerely appreciate your perseverance and patience,” the commissioner said.
Osiyemi urged the people to protect the facilities, stressing that they are funded with taxpayers’ money and designed to provide long-term benefits. The administration has delivered similar repairs at Odo Iyalaro and Apongbon bridges, with several other projects currently underway across the state.
The Lagos State Government’s infrastructure renewal drive aims to provide safe, durable, and sustainable infrastructure for a greater Lagos. With the Ogudu Ifako Bridge now reopened, commuters and motorists can expect a smoother and more efficient journey.