Nigeria Closes Ijora Bridge in Lagos for Urgent Structural Repairs

The Federal Government of Nigeria has scheduled the complete closure of the Ijora Bridge in Lagos to carry out essential maintenance work. Officials announced the full shutdown would begin on 27 April 2025 so that engineers can replace deteriorated bearings beneath the bridge deck.

The bearings support the bridge structure and allow for necessary movement caused by traffic and temperature changes. Their replacement is regarded as critical to prevent progressive structural damage that could compromise the safety of the crossing.

The Ijora Bridge forms part of the road network linking Lagos Island with the mainland. Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial capital and Africa’s largest city by population, depends heavily on such infrastructure to move people and goods daily. The bridge has long been a vital artery for commuters, freight and public transport.

No specific duration for the closure was provided in the announcement. Motorists and transport operators will need to seek alternative routes during the works, which are likely to increase journey times across the city.

The decision reflects ongoing efforts by Nigerian authorities to maintain ageing infrastructure in a country where many bridges and roads were built decades ago. Regular inspections and timely repairs are required to keep vital links operational amid heavy daily use.

According to Nairametrics, the closure forms part of a targeted intervention aimed at extending the bridge’s service life and avoiding more extensive and costly reconstruction in future.

Residents and businesses in the affected areas are expected to adjust travel plans once the exact start time and diversion details are released by the relevant transport agencies.

Based on reporting by Nairametrics.