The Federal Government has announced plans to demolish and reconstruct three major sections of the Iddo Bridge in Lagos, following severe structural damage caused by a fire from illegal occupants and repeated truck collisions.
Speaking to journalists at the bridge site on Wednesday, the Federal Controller of Works in Lagos, Mrs. Olukorede Kesha, said the reconstruction is part of government efforts to fix structural defects and ensure the bridge’s safety and durability.
She noted that the repair project would span approximately three months, adding that heavy-duty and articulated vehicles would be barred from using the bridge starting next weekend to enable the installation of height barriers and the commencement of construction work.
She said after that, on November 22, demolition of the bridge deck proper would start.
She said the diversions would start from Apapa-bound to Carter Bridge-bound and would be counterflow.
“We are here to inform Lagosians that the Iddo Bridge will soon be closed to articulated vehicles.
“This restriction is necessary because the bridge has not received proper attention for many years and now requires urgent repairs,” she said.
Kesha noted that while the demolition and reconstruction would take place in phases, the Apapa-bound section would be the first to be worked on.
She said traffic would be diverted to the Carter Bridge side, with a counterflow arrangement for light vehicles only.
The controller assured all that the ministry had held meetings with relevant traffic and security agencies, including the Federal Road Safety Corps, Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, and the Police, to ensure smooth movement during the construction period.
She urged drivers, especially trailer and truck operators, to comply with diversion signs and use alternative routes through Eko Bridge, Costain, Third Mainland Bridge, and Herbert Macaulay Way.
“We don’t want accidents. That’s why we are creating awareness early, especially for truck drivers who may not get information through the media,” Kesha said.
She added that advocacy campaigns would also be taken to garages, parks, and transport unions to ensure widespread awareness of the planned restriction.
Kesha said the project, expected to be completed by early March 2026, was designed to enhance safety and improve traffic flow once fully reopened.
