The wait is finally over as the Eko Bridge in Lagos State has been reopened to vehicular traffic, putting an end to 15 months of closure for major repairs by the Federal Government.
The bridge suffered significant damage at the Apogbon section due to a fire caused by illegal trading underneath it. The intensity of the inferno weakened crucial components and supporting pillars, necessitating the extensive repair and subsequent closure of the entire stretch. Eko Bridge is one of the three bridges that connect the mainland to the Island of Lagos.
The reopening of the bridge has brought immense relief to motorists and commuters who endured months of inconvenience traveling to and from Lagos Island. A drive-through ceremony was held, attended by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the Federal Comptroller of Works, Olukorede Keisha, to mark the occasion.
Governor Sanwo-Olu announced that the repair work at the Apogbon axis has been completed, but maintenance efforts will continue, leading to intermittent closures in the coming months. He conveyed the Federal Government’s apologies for the delay in reopening the bridge, emphasizing the importance of proper reconstruction of the damaged section before resuming regular usage.
The Governor also issued a warning to traders and illegal squatters operating under the bridge, giving them a seven-day ultimatum to vacate the area. He directed the Lagos State Environment and Special Offences Enforcement Unit (Taskforce) to clear any illegal structures found beneath the bridge.
Keisha expressed gratitude to the Lagos State Government for collaborating with the Federal Ministry of Works to expedite the repair work. She highlighted that comprehensive maintenance had already commenced on Eko Bridge before the fire incident, and after repairing the damaged portions, the contractor will continue reinforcing the bridge for public safety.
The reopening of the bridge is a result of the collaborative efforts between the state and federal authorities, ensuring the timely completion of the repairs and the resumption of traffic flow.
