Heads-Up, Lagos! Marine Bridge to Shut Down for 60 Days

Lagosians, brace yourselves. Starting Sunday, April 27, the Marine Bridge will be partially closed for 60 days as the Federal Ministry of Works kicks off a much-needed structural repair. While the upgrades are essential, it’s going to shake up traffic around Apapa, Ijora, and Iganmu—this is one update you don’t want to scroll past.

 Appearing on Sunrise Daily on Channels Television, Olukorede Kesha, the Federal Controller of Works for Lagos State, broke down the plan: it’s all part of a multi-phase rehabilitation effort aimed at restoring the aging bridge. But the short-term pain will come from the first 20-day total shutdown of the bridge’s entry point—guaranteed to send shockwaves through already stressed traffic arteries.

“We’re replacing about 50 worn-out bearings. To do this, we have to physically lift the bridge at specific points,” Kesha explained.

How It’ll Go Down: Phase 1: Full closure at the bridge’s entry point for 20 days. Phase 2: Middle section gets attention next, but this time traffic will be diverted, not halted. Phase 3: Final work near the Apapa descent, close to Area B Police Command, with additional diversions.

While the total closure only lasts 20 days, expect traffic bottlenecks through the full 60-day duration.

Kesha advised articulated truck drivers to steer clear of Ijora altogether redirecting from Costain through Iganmu straight to Apapa. Smaller vehicles or trucks with business in Ijora 7up can use the access road via the roundabout.

And for everyone else? Patience, planning, and proper attention to road signs and traffic diversions will be your best friends.

Lagos’ earlier unplanned bridge closure in April caused traffic chaos. This time, authorities are giving a heads-up to cushion the blow and streamline the process.

So, whether you’re a daily commuter, a transporter, or just passing through, now’s the time to map out Plan B—because the Marine Bridge is officially under construction mode.