Lagos Announces 4-Day Partial Night Closure of Maryland Independence Bridge for Emergency Repairs

The Lagos State Government has issued a crucial traffic advisory, announcing a 4-day partial closure of the Maryland Independence Bridge to facilitate emergency night-time repairs on a damaged wall section and worn-out expansion joints. The closure is scheduled from Saturday, August 16, through Tuesday, August 19, 2025, each night between 11:00 p.m. and 4:00 a.m. (Vanguard; PUNCH).

While the main carriageway will be completely closed to vehicular movement during these overnight hours, there will be no restrictions on motorists traveling inbound from Ketu, Ikorodu, Lagos, Stadium, or Anthony, who can proceed unhindered. Traffic management personnel will be deployed on-site to enhance traffic flow and reduce disruptions.

For commuters inbound from Oshodi, Ojuelegba, Stadium, and Lagos Island, traffic will be diverted at the Maria Lodge junction in Maryland, rerouting into the Maryland Bridge to connect with Idiroko Road inward Anthony. From there, motorists can resume their journeys toward Lagos Island and beyond. It’s important to note that this route is intended to navigate around the closed segments, ensuring continued access through alternative corridors.

According to Commissioner for Transportation Oluwaseun Osiyemi, the urgent repair of expansion joints and wall damage is critical to ensuring the structural integrity and safety of the bridge. These works are part of the broader maintenance strategy to address wear and prevent more significant disruptions. The State Government assured commuters that all efforts are being made to complete the repair swiftly and safely.

This intervention follows an extended period of infrastructure maintenance across Lagos. Earlier this year, strong measures were taken to rehabilitate other vital arteries like the Independence Bridge (Marina/CMS route), which had experienced multi-month closures, diversions, and lasting traffic congestion.

In one instance, the Federal Government shut the Independence Bridge for two months for comprehensive rehabilitation, triggering calls from commuters and businesses due to heightened gridlock. These past efforts mirrored Lagos’s commitment to maintaining aging infrastructure while minimizing disruption to residents.

Lagosians have been encouraged to exercise patient cooperation as the authorities enhance governance in ensuring the safe passage of commuters during essential repairs.

To minimize inconvenience, commuters are advised to:

• Avoid peak hours between 11:00 p.m. and 4:00 a.m. during the closure period if possible.
• Use the diverted route via Maria Lodge to Idiroko inward Anthony as outlined.
• Follow directions from LASTMA and other traffic personnel on the ground.
• Consider rescheduling travel, especially if heading toward Lagos Island, during late-night hours.