To ease mounting traffic congestion resulting from ongoing structural rehabilitation on the Ifako Bridge, the Lagos State Government has approved the suspension of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) lane enforcement along the Eko Bridge and Odo Iya-Alaro corridors.
The directive, which takes immediate effect, was issued by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Hon. Sola Giwa, as part of the State’s coordinated traffic management response aimed at minimizing commuter hardship and preserving the flow of vehicular movement during the repair period.
According to Hon. Giwa, the decision was necessitated by the partial closure of the Ifako-bound carriageway on the Third Mainland Bridge, which has increased pressure on adjoining road networks.
“We are fully aware of the current strain on major access routes into the Lagos Mainland. This temporary suspension is a strategic intervention designed to mitigate traffic disruptions, reduce travel time, and offer relief to commuters during this critical period,” Giwa stated.
The measure allows private and non-BRT vehicles to access dedicated BRT lanes along the designated corridors, particularly during peak hours. However, the Special Adviser emphasized that the suspension is temporary and subject to strict traffic discipline.
Commercial buses and articulated trucks are expected to operate in compliance with all existing road safety and loading regulations to prevent additional bottlenecks or safety risks.
To ensure effective implementation, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has deployed additional traffic personnel and equipment to monitor the affected areas. Officials have been tasked with enforcing orderly road use and curbing any abuse of the temporary directive.
General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Bakare Oki Olalekan, reaffirmed the agency’s readiness to manage traffic during the repair period.
“Our operatives have been strategically deployed to key locations to manage traffic, enforce compliance, and respond swiftly to incidents. We appeal to all motorists to cooperate fully and observe traffic rules to support this effort,” he said.
Motorists are also encouraged to explore alternative routes, adopt flexible travel times, and stay updated through official traffic advisories available via radio, social media, and the LASTMA toll-free hotline: 0800-0052-7862 (0800-00LASTMA).
This traffic adjustment initiative falls in line with the THEMES Plus Agenda of the Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration, which emphasizes efficient transport solutions, responsive governance, and infrastructure sustainability.
Authorities confirmed that the suspension will remain in place only for the duration of the Ifako Bridge rehabilitation, after which normal enforcement of BRT lanes will resume.
The Lagos State Government assured residents of its continued commitment to managing urban mobility challenges and delivering impactful infrastructure solutions without compromising commuter safety or public order.
Reporting by Niran Odufayo