Nigeria’s busiest route, the third mainland bridge in Lagos state is to be shut until 2021 for repairs.

According to the federal government, a partial closure of the bridge will commence from midnight on Friday.

While briefing journalists in Abuja on Tuesday, works and housing minister Babatunde Raji Fashola said the rehabilitation became imperative due to failing and damaged portions, admitting that the government cannot afford to rebuild the bridge if allowed to collapse.

“The construction of the bridge spanned three decades and we cannot afford to rebuild it if we allow it to totally collapse. Infrastructure must be maintained. After the work is done, we will have better driving experience on the bridge,” Fashola said.

Lagos announces alternative routes for motorists

Meanwhile the Federal and Lagos State Governments have announced traffic management plan ahead of the closure of the Third Mainland Bridge which would take effect from  July 24, 2020 to January 24, 2021.

Federal Controller of Works in Lagos, Olukayode Popoola while briefing journalists said within the period, motorists would use the Island bound lane and alternative routes provided.

“From 12am to 1pm, the highway would take the Oworonshoki to Lagos Island traffic only on the Lagos Island bound carriageway.

“From 1pm to 11pm, the highway would take the Lagos Island to Oworonshoki traffic only on the Lagos Island bound carriageway.

“Motorists are advised to ply alternative routes from Carter Bridge through Iddo, through Oyingbo to join Adekunle ramp inward Oworonshoki.

“From Ijora Olopa through Western Avenue to Ikorodu Road. Traffic control will be in place to direct and help traffic movement”, he said.