The Lagos State Government has reopened the Ogudu-Ifako Bridge following the completion of repair works on 400 metres of its four expansion joints.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), a section of the bridge was closed to vehicular traffic on June 28 to enable construction works. Initially projected to last 100 days, the project was completed in just 73 days.
The first four phases of the rehabilitation, covering the Ogudu/Ifako inbound Alapere stretch, were completed between June 28 and August 16. The remaining phases, which covered the inbound Oworoshoki axis, commenced in August and were also delivered ahead of schedule.
Special Adviser on Infrastructure, Mr. Olufemi Daramola, and Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Seun Osiyemi, led an inspection team to certify the project.
Daramola noted that defects on the expansion joints, if left unattended, could have endangered motorists and weakened the busy bridge. He attributed the early completion to the cooperation of stakeholders, the dedication of contractors, and the patience of Lagos residents.
“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.
He added that government engineers would soon focus on maintenance works in the Maza-Maza area.
Osiyemi, in his remarks, expressed gratitude to residents for their endurance during the partial closure, assuring that the government would sustain its infrastructure renewal programme.
“This success belongs to everyone. Lagosians endured the inconveniences and supported the process. We sincerely appreciate your perseverance and patience,” he said.
The commissioner also urged residents to safeguard public infrastructure, stressing that they are funded with taxpayers’ money and built for long-term benefits.
He recalled similar rehabilitation works carried out at the Odo-Iyalaro and Apongbon bridges, with several other projects currently ongoing across the state.
Commuters expressed relief over the reopening. Ms. Adebisi Adesesan said the move would ease traffic congestion, while a commercial driver, Mr. Taofeek Shittu, noted that it would reduce travel time and fuel costs.
With the repairs completed, the Ogudu-Ifako Bridge is now fully open to vehicular movement, restoring smooth traffic flow on one of Lagos’s busiest transport corridors.
