After Traffic Snarl over Closure, Umahi Orders Immediate Reopening of Independence Bridge

The Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, Has Ordered the Immediate Reopening of Independence Bridge in Lagos.

In a move to mitigate the persistent traffic congestion along Victoria Island, Lagos, the Minister of Works, ordered the immediate opening of the Independence Bridge. The announcement made during a visit on April 2, 2025, will set the ball rolling in terms of improving the flow of traffic in the area, making transportation easier and more efficient while boosting economic activities in Lagos.

Considered the most vital structure linking major parts of Lagos, Independence Bridge has been closed down for major repairs and maintenance. The closure has caused a lot of inconvenience to commuters crossing from Victoria Island and those visiting surrounding areas. Its reopening will finally bring some relief from the daily traffic of lagatuites.

This coincided with a pronouncement by Umahi after months of interaction between the Federal Government and the Lagos State Government to resolve infrastructural challenges presented with the closing of the bridge. It included the illegal removals of encroaching structures that mounted beneath the bridge, which deteriorated its structures. It is also aimed at restoring structural integrity and safety of use by motorists and pedestrians.

Independence Bridge will, therefore, be opened by the Federal Government in line with the program which develops the broader framework of the city’s transportation network, threatened by population increase and urbanization at the highest levels new heights. “This is meant to open the arteries to essential routes, shorten travel times, and relieve congestion for people and merchandise vital to that city’s economy,” added the government.

Minister Umahi made it clear that opening the bridge will improve the transportation system, but will directly affect overall economic activities in Lagos. “The reopening of the Independence Bridge is an important step toward enhancing the infrastructure of our city. It will make transportation more efficient, reduce congestion, and support the continued growth and prosperity of Lagos,” said Umahi in a statement.

Independent Bridge, the road-network arterial route, routes several areas within the city, and is equally an important link for the resident and business communities alike. The reopening of this infrastructure should therefore improve traffic flow and travel times, especially around Victoria Island, which are potentially among the most vibrant commercial and financial areas.

While availing itself to more infrastructural development, this move is interpreted as a step toward redressing the ills of urban transportation and consequently making the environment more suitable for living by residents and investments alike in Lagos.