The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced full closure of the Ijora Bridge in Lagos State, starting from April 27, for critical repair works.
The Federal Controller of Works, Lagos, Mrs Olukorede Kesha, made this known during an inspection of the bridge on Monday.
She said that the bridge connecting Ijora Causeway to Apapa needed comprehensive repairs, especially replacement of defective bearings beneath the deck.
Kesha said: “This bridge has been awarded for some time now in different phases.
“We are now at the final phase, which involves lifting the entire bridge deck to change the faulty bearings beneath.
“A lot of the bearings are defective, and approximately 50 of them will be replaced across three sections.”
Kesha emphasised the importance of the Ijora Bridge as a major route leading to Apapa, home to two of Nigeria’s busiest ports, Tincan and Apapa ports.
She acknowledged the disruption the closure would cause but said that it was necessary for the safety of commuters and to prevent further deterioration.
Kesha appealed to road users for understanding and cooperation, adding that the repairs would be time-sensitive.
She said: “It won’t collapse, but it definitely needs help. If you drive on the bridge now, you will feel vibrations.
“That is because the bearings, the spring-like supports under the deck, have weakened significantly.”
