The Lagos State government announced on Sunday that the Independence/Mekwen Bridge will be closed for emergency repairs starting this Wednesday.

According to a statement from the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation, the closure, which will impact inbound traffic to the Marina and CMS areas, is expected to last over two months, from March 19 to May 26.

“This closure is essential to support the Federal Ministry of Works’ rehabilitation efforts,” said Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation.

The diversion plan involves the complete closure of the route from the National Open University of Nigeria through Bonny Camp Bridge to the Independence Bridge. Additionally, the service lane at Bonny Camp Underpass Bridge will be closed, while the service lane from Ahmadu Bello Way to Ozumba Mbadiwe will remain open.

Motorists are advised to use alternative routes. Those traveling to Victoria Island should take Ozumba Mbadiwe, continue through Akin Adesola to Falomo Roundabout, and then proceed on Obafemi Awolowo Road to Ring Road.

For access to the 3rd Mainland Bridge, drivers should follow Ozumba Mbadiwe, Akin Adesola, Alfred Rewane, and Osborne, before connecting to Ring Road. Motorists heading to Inner Marina or CMS should take Ozumba Mbadiwe, then continue through Akin Adesola to Falomo Roundabout, followed by Obafemi Awolowo Road to J.K. Randle/King George V Road.

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) will oversee traffic control during the construction period.

Officials are urging motorists to exercise patience during the closure, which is part of the ongoing infrastructure improvement efforts in the state.