The Nigerian government has directed the immediate reopening of Independence Bridge, located in Victoria Island, Lagos State, amid heavy traffic gridlock.

The Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, gave this order on Wednesday, according to a source familiar with the development.

Details of the directive remain unclear as of the time of filing the report.

However, his directive comes as commuters in Lagos State lament the gridlock caused by the ongoing repairs of Independence Bridge.

Recall that two days ago, the federal government announced the closure of Independence Bridge from April 1, 2025, for vital rehabilitation.

Earlier, commuters and motorists had urged the federal government to reopen the bridge to alleviate traffic congestion.

Nigerian govt announces reopening of Lagos bridge to ease heavy traffic