Brace Yourselves: Lagos–Ibadan Expressway Shuts Partially for 6 Weeks as Bridges Fall Apart

 Motorists on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway should prepare for traffic chaos as the Nigerian government announces a six-week partial closure to repair dangerously deteriorating bridges.

The Federal Ministry of Works confirmed that Kara Bridge, Magboro Bridge, and Arepo–Punch Bridge require urgent fixes after inspections revealed failing expansion joints, which have been linked to frequent accidents and vehicle damage along the corridor.

Speaking at Kara Bridge, Ogun State Federal Controller of Works, Michael Komolafe, apologised for the disruption but stressed that public safety was the priority. “The expansion joints on these bridges are in very poor condition. Previous works were suspended due to traffic complaints, but we cannot risk more crashes,” he said.

CBC Construction Company, the contractor on the project, said mobilisation of equipment is ongoing, with full construction expected to start Monday. Repairs will be phased: half of each bridge is expected to be fixed within one week, with the Ibadan-bound sections addressed sequentially.

Lagos Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Kehinde Hamzat, assured road users that traffic control measures are in place but warned against driving against traffic. “Offenders will be arrested. We urge patience — these repairs are critical to save lives,” Hamzat said.

Komolafe revealed that some sections of Magboro and Arepo–Punch bridges, as well as half of Kara Bridge’s Lagos-bound side, were already repaired before work was halted due to congestion concerns. The new directive aims to resolve the problem permanently, preventing further accidents and vehicle damage.

Authorities have promised safety barriers, lights, and warning signs to protect both commuters and construction crews, but commuters should expect delays and detours over the next six weeks.

With the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway being one of Nigeria’s busiest highways, the partial closure will test commuters’ patience, but officials insist that bridge safety outweighs temporary traffic inconvenience.

SOURCE : NaijaRush Assignment Desk