Federal Government to Shut Down Ijora-Marine Bridge for 21 Days Starting May 18 for Critical Repairs

The Federal Ministry of Works has officially announced a 21-day closure of the Ijora-Marine Bridge in Lagos beginning 7 a.m. on Sunday, May 18, 2025, to carry out critical repair works aimed at ensuring motorist safety and restoring the structural integrity of the bridge.

According to a statement issued by the Federal Controller of Works in Lagos, Engr. Olukorede Kesha, the closure will involve full shutdowns at certain sections of the bridge and partial closures at others, depending on the nature of the repairs required in each area.

“This critical project aims to improve road safety and enhance the driving experience of motorists. The work involves lifting the entire bridge deck to change the faulty bearings beneath amongst other repair works. This will ensure a smoother, safer roadway,” the statement read.

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Traffic Diversions and Public Advisory

Kesha emphasized that a traffic management plan has been carefully mapped out, with diversion routes established to minimize disruptions. Road signs and traffic control personnel will be deployed throughout the affected areas to guide both drivers and pedestrians.

“Appropriate signage and traffic control measures will be in place to guide drivers and pedestrians. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate the public’s patience and cooperation as we work to improve our infrastructure,” she added.

Residents and businesses operating within the bridge corridor are encouraged to plan ahead, as traffic congestion is expected to increase during the repair period. The Controller urged commuters to use alternative routes and avoid unnecessary trips during peak hours while the repairs are underway.

Infrastructure Rehabilitation Beyond the Ijora-Marine Bridge

While announcing the bridge closure, the Federal Controller also highlighted the ongoing federal infrastructure rehabilitation efforts in Lagos, under the leadership of the Minister of Works, David Umahi. These include the Third Mainland Bridge and Outer Marina shoreline protection projects, both of which have made notable progress.

Kesha revealed that the Outer Marina shoreline, which had been threatened by erosion due to deteriorated sheet piles, has seen 30 percent completion of protection works. A new reinforced concrete wall has been constructed to safeguard the road and adjacent infrastructure.

“This new reinforcement has extended the lifespan of this road by more than 25 years,” she explained. The project had experienced delays initially due to the absence of engineering drawings, but Kesha confirmed that the remaining work will be completed within the next 22 months of the 30-month timeline.

Third Mainland Bridge: 99 Percent Completion, CCTV Installed

On the Third Mainland Bridge, Kesha reported that repair work is 99 percent complete, with the replacement of expansion joints, asphalt relaying, parapet repairs, guardrail installations, and modern surveillance systems including CCTV cameras already in place.

The new CCTV system is connected to a dedicated control room, which will enhance real-time monitoring of bridge activities and deter potential acts of vandalism and criminality.

Kesha assured that vandalised parts of the bridge would be repaired before final handover, as contractors move into the finishing stages of the rehabilitation.

Legislative Oversight and Support

During a recent inspection tour, the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Works, Akin Alabi, lauded the Federal Ministry of Works for its technical expertise and commitment to infrastructural renewal in Lagos. Accompanied by Kesha and other engineers, Alabi praised the coordination between the Ministry and the Chinese construction firm, CCECC, responsible for executing the project.

“This project requires significant expertise. The last intervention here was over 40 years ago. Without this, we risk losing vital assets,” Alabi said.

He expressed particular satisfaction with the progress of the Third Mainland Bridge and the new additions like the CCTV control center. He urged that remaining sections be completed swiftly to reduce security vulnerabilities and prevent future damage.

“The last part is vulnerable. It must be completed quickly to deter criminal activities,” he emphasized.

Funding and Legislative Commitment

Alabi assured that the National Assembly remains committed to supporting funding allocations for critical infrastructure projects, emphasizing the legislature’s role in both appropriation and oversight.

He noted that sustained collaboration between lawmakers and the Ministry of Works would accelerate completion timelines and ensure that federal roads and bridges across Lagos and other regions are brought up to modern standards.

As the Ijora-Marine Bridge closure looms, the federal government has urged residents to remain patient and cooperate with traffic officers while the bridge undergoes this crucial intervention.