Amid the rising outcry about the deteriorating state of the Third Mainland Bridge, the Federal Government and the Lagos State Government have jointly decided to undertake vital repair works. To facilitate these renovations, the bridge will remain closed on two subsequent Sundays, September 17 and 24.
Daily commuters on this arterial bridge have constantly raised concerns about its worsening condition, primarily due to dangerous potholes, which have become accident hotspots. While the state’s machinery is speeding up deliberations for the Fourth Mainland Bridge, many believe that the Third Mainland Bridge is shouldering more than its capacity.
According to a report by Vanguard, Abdulhafiz Toriola, Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Transportation, verified the imminent repairs, detailing that these would be executed in stages starting the forthcoming week. To speed up the renovations, authorities will establish traffic diversions.
Toriola mentioned they will perform repair work from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on September 17 and 24, 2023. The first phase will focus mainly on the pressing issues from Iyana-Oworonsoki to Adeniji Adele/Lagos Island. Toriola also noted that choosing Sundays for the repairs reduces disruptions for the public.
With a proactive approach, the state administration has circulated a travel advisory. Offering alternatives, Toriola suggested two main detours:
Route 1: Motorists from the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway and Alapere/Ogudu region heading to Lagos Island can reroute through the Gbagada-Oshodi Expressway, connecting to Ikorodu Road/Funsho Williams Avenue to access Eko Bridge.
  Route 2: Commuters from Lagos Mainland using Herbert Macaulay Road (Adekunle direction) towards Lagos Island via Third Mainland Bridge can divert via Murtala Muhammed Way and then use Carter Bridge.
Urging patience and adherence to safety protocols during this interim phase, Toriola assured the public of efficient traffic management. He reiterated that the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), and Nigeria Police, among other agencies, will coordinate to ensure smooth flow and safety.
While the government is gearing up for the repairs, the lament of the motorists rings loud. The 11.8km Third Mainland Bridge, the second-longest in Africa, exhibits its wear and tear, especially in sections between Oworonsoki to Adekunle and towards Adeniji-Adele junction.
Motorists like Uber driver Ade Olabisi recounted tales of damage and near-accidents due to these menacing potholes. Another commuter, Mrs. Florence Nwosu, vividly described an incident caused by the potholes, emphasizing the need for urgent attention.
Echoing similar concerns, trader Mr. Ifeanyi Alozie mentioned the frequent high-speed accidents on the bridge. Lastly, businessman Mr. Mohammed Seidu pressed upon the urgency, urging timely action, encapsulating his sentiment with, “A stitch in time saves nine.”
In summary, as the bridge braces for its repairs, it stands as a testament to the urgent need for infrastructural upkeep in the bustling megacity of Lagos.
