|By Chinwendu Nwani
The Federal Government has unveiled plans to demolish and reconstruct three severely damaged spans of the Iddo Bridge in Lagos, as part of its renewed drive to restore key transport infrastructure across the country.
The Federal Controller of Works in Lagos, Mrs. Olukorede Kesha, disclosed this on Wednesday during a press briefing at the bridge site. She said the decision followed years of structural deterioration worsened by a recent fire outbreak and multiple collisions involving heavy-duty vehicles.
Kesha explained that the project, which will last about three months, forms part of the Federal Government’s broader effort to ensure public safety and strengthen critical infrastructure.
Beginning next weekend, the Ministry of Works will restrict articulated and heavy-duty vehicles from using the Iddo Bridge to allow for the installation of height barriers and other preparatory works. The demolition of the damaged bridge deck is scheduled to commence on November 22, 2025.
“We are here to inform Lagos residents that the Iddo Bridge will soon be closed to articulated vehicles. This restriction is necessary because the bridge has suffered years of neglect and now requires urgent attention,” Kesha said.
She noted that the reconstruction will proceed in phases, starting with the Apapa-bound section. During this period, traffic will be diverted to the Carter Bridge corridor, where a counter-flow system will be introduced for light vehicles only.
To minimize gridlock, Kesha said the Ministry of Works has partnered with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), and the Nigeria Police Force to coordinate a robust traffic management plan.
She appealed to motorists—especially trailer and truck drivers—to obey diversion signs and use alternative routes such as Eko Bridge, Costain, Third Mainland Bridge, and Herbert Macaulay Way during the construction period.
“Our priority is safety. We are raising awareness early, especially for truck drivers who might not receive updates through the media,” she added.
The Ministry will also roll out sensitization campaigns across garages, motor parks, and transport unions to keep stakeholders informed of the temporary restrictions.
According to Kesha, the project is expected to be completed by March 2026, after which the bridge will reopen fully to traffic. Upon completion, the rehabilitated Iddo Bridge is expected to enhance road safety, ease traffic flow, and prolong the lifespan of the vital transport corridor.
