The Federal Government has reopened the Independence Bridge in Lagos, two days after its closure triggered widespread gridlock across the city.
The Minister of Works, David Umahi, who ordered the immediate reopening on Thursday, led the inspection of the bridge on Friday. He explained that the closure was due to a structural failure of the approach slab, which caved in as a result of a faulty cantilever design and sand erosion beneath the structure.
“This was an emergency situation. The approach slab was a free-standing cantilever, which is structurally incorrect. Every slab must be anchored at one end,” Umahi stated.
The closure had drawn public outcry, prompting apologies from Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and criticism over the lack of prior notice. Umahi admitted that proper communication was not followed and pledged that future closures will follow a standardised national procedure.
“No road or bridge will be closed without drone surveys, problem analysis, proposed solutions, alternative routes, and public announcements,” he said.
Umahi announced that the bridge would undergo a redesign to a one-span structure to ensure long-term durability and eliminate structural pressure points.
He also revealed that permanent reconstruction would begin in three weeks, following checks on underground utilities. The phased work will last 21 days per section, with traffic managed by the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA).
“Our focus now is not just engineering. It’s communication, safety, and public convenience. We must do better,” he added.
