The Lagos State Government has officially reopened the newly rehabilitated Odo Iya Alaro Bridge, marking a major milestone aimed at alleviating persistent traffic congestion in the area.
At the bridge’s reopening ceremony, Deputy Governor Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, representing Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, highlighted that the swift completion of the rehabilitation is a testament to the administration’s dedication to improving traffic management and transportation infrastructure across the state.
Sanwo-Olu emphasised that the state government remains committed to maintaining and upgrading road infrastructure for the benefit of Lagos commuters.
He urged citizens to actively support the preservation of the bridge by protecting it from vandalism.
The Governor specifically warned against tampering with the newly installed manhole covers, which are now made of fiber materials to prevent theft. He assured that anyone caught removing these covers would face prosecution.
“The new fiber manholes are designed to serve a safety function, preventing accidents and ensuring pedestrian safety,” Governor Sanwo-Olu said. “Their removal is not only illegal but dangerous. We will take legal action against anyone caught engaging in such acts.”
Hamzat praised the efficiency of the project, noting that the bridge rehabilitation, originally scheduled for 90 days, was completed in just 54 days.
He expressed gratitude to the Office of Works, Infrastructure, Ministry of Transportation, Lagos State Traffic Management Agency (LASTMA), and other stakeholders for their prompt and effective work.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Infrastructure, Engr. Olufemi Daramola, detailed that the project involved installing new expansion joints and performing remedial work on the bridge.
The Odo Iya Alaro Bridge, which had been closed since July 22, 2024, was reopened ahead of schedule to alleviate the hardships faced by road users.
Work on the Ojota-bound side of the bridge began on July 22, 2024, and was completed on August 23, 2024.
The rehabilitation of the Maryland-bound section commenced on August 23, 2024, and was finished on September 13, 2024—marking a total of 54 days from the start of the project.
With the bridge now operational, Lagos State anticipates a significant reduction in traffic delays and improved travel efficiency for its residents.