Marine Bridge Lagos Set for 60-Day Closure Starting April 27 – Here’s Everything You Need to Know
Heads up, Lagosians! If you use the Marine Bridge regularly, especially around the Apapa, Ijora, or Iganmu areas, you’ll want to take note of some major traffic changes starting Sunday, April 27, 2025. The Federal Ministry of Works has officially announced a 60-day closure of the bridge to carry out important structural repairs.
Why Is the Marine Bridge Being Closed?
According to Olukorede Kesha, the Federal Controller of Works for Lagos State, the closure is necessary as part of a phased repair project on the bridge. While speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on Tuesday, she explained that the bridge needs serious attention, especially at certain points where structural bearings have to be replaced.
“This phase of the repair involves replacing about 50 bearings. To do that, we need to lift the bridge at specific points. The first section at the beginning of the bridge will require a full closure for 20 days,”
— Olukorede Kesha
Bearings are crucial components in bridges — they help support the structure and manage the weight and movement caused by vehicles. Over time, these parts wear out and need replacement to keep the bridge safe for use.
How Will the Closure Happen?
The bridge repairs will be done in three main phases, each focusing on a different section of the Marine Bridge. Here's a breakdown:
🔹 Phase 1: Complete Closure for 20 Days
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Where? The very beginning of the bridge.
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Duration: 20 days (starting April 27)
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Impact: Total shutdown of the section. This is expected to cause heavy traffic around Apapa, Ijora, and Iganmu.
🔹 Phase 2: Partial Closure Around the Middle
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Where? The central part of the bridge.
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Duration: Next 20 days.
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Impact: Traffic will be diverted. Both lanes from Iganmu will be merged to allow vehicles to move through one side.
“The second section is around the middle of the bridge, and we plan to divert traffic there. The two lanes from Iganmu will be merged, so we can shift traffic to one side for another 20 days,”
— Olukorede Kesha
🔹 Phase 3: Descent Into Apapa
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Where? The end of the bridge near Area B Police Command.
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Duration: Final 20 days.
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Impact: Traffic will again be redirected. Although this will still cause congestion, it won’t be as severe as the full closure during Phase 1.
“The final repair section will be at the bridge’s descent into Apapa... making the entire project last about 60 days.”
What About Truck Drivers and Heavy Vehicles?
To ease the pressure on the roads, especially during the total shutdown period, Kesha advised drivers of articulated trucks to avoid certain routes altogether.
“If you’re an articulated truck (driver), don’t come through Ijora. From Costain, link Iganmu and head straight to Apapa,”
— Kesha
For smaller vehicles or trucks with business around Ijora 7up, she said they can still take a left at the roundabout and follow the access route leading up to the bridge.
How to Prepare for the Closure
This isn’t the first time the Marine Bridge has been closed. An earlier unplanned closure in April had already caused intense gridlock in parts of Lagos. This time, however, the ministry says they are better prepared, and the public has been properly informed in advance.
Kesha also emphasized the importance of staying alert and cooperating with traffic officials:
“Drivers should follow road signs, pay attention to diversion markings, and check traffic updates throughout the repair period.”
✅ In Summary
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Closure starts: Sunday, April 27, 2025
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Duration: 60 days total
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Worst congestion: First 20 days (complete closure)
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Advice: Avoid the route if possible, especially if you drive a large truck. Follow diversions and check for traffic updates.
Stay safe and plan your route ahead, NaijaRush fam! If you have to travel around Apapa or Iganmu during this period, give yourself plenty of extra time — and maybe even consider alternative transportation if you can.
We'll keep you posted with traffic updates as the situation develops. Stay tuned!
