Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has advised residents to conduct their businesses online and embrace remote work for the next few weeks to mitigate the traffic congestion caused by the ongoing rehabilitation of the Independence Bridge.
The governor made this announcement while inspecting the construction site, accompanied by members of his cabinet and senior officials from the Federal Ministry of Works.
The Independence Bridge, which links Ahmadu Bello Way to Marina and CMS, was closed for urgent repairs, resulting in major traffic disruptions in Victoria Island and surrounding areas. Sanwo-Olu acknowledged the inconvenience caused by the closure and assured residents that the repairs are necessary to prevent a potential disaster.
To ease the traffic congestion, Sanwo-Olu announced that the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) will deploy more officers to affected areas, including those reassigned from other parts of the city. Additionally, alternative solutions, such as counterflow lanes, are being considered to improve movement.
The governor also advised Lagosians to adjust their travel schedules, suggesting off-peak travel hours for those who must go out. He urged residents to plan ahead and avoid unnecessary movement into Victoria Island over the next few weeks.
Sanwo-Olu’s administration has been working to improve the state’s infrastructure, with plans to unveil 36 newly completed roads, five bridges, and a pedestrian bridge across the state. The governor’s efforts to address the traffic congestion on Victoria Island are part of his administration’s commitment to improving the lives of Lagosians.
The traffic congestion on Victoria Island has caused widespread complaints from road users and residents in the affected areas.³ Sanwo-Olu’s apology and assurance that the repairs are necessary to prevent a potential disaster have been well-received by residents.
The Lagos State Government has mobilized additional traffic officers to manage the expected congestion during the repair period. Residents are urged to stay informed, use alternative routes, and plan their movements wisely as the rehabilitation continues.
Sanwo-Olu’s call for residents to embrace remote work and conduct their businesses online is a practical solution to mitigate the traffic congestion. By working together, residents and the state government can manage the situation and reduce the inconvenience caused by the bridge’s closure.
