The Federal Government has announced plans to demolish and reconstruct three major spans of the Iddo Bridge in Lagos, following extensive structural damage caused by a fire outbreak and repeated collisions with heavy-duty vehicles.

The disclosure was made on Wednesday, by the Federal Controller of Works in Lagos, Mrs Olukorede Kesha, during a press briefing at the project site.

According to Kesha, the repair work forms part of the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to rehabilitate critical infrastructure and restore the Iddo Bridge to a safe and durable condition.

The reconstruction process, she said, will span approximately three months.

She explained that, beginning next weekend, articulated and heavy-duty vehicles will be restricted from accessing the bridge to allow for the installation of height barriers and other preliminary works ahead of demolition.

The actual removal of the damaged bridge deck is scheduled to commence on November 22, 2025.

“We are here to inform Lagos residents that the Iddo Bridge will soon be closed to articulated vehicles. This restriction is necessary because the bridge has suffered years of neglect and now requires urgent attention,” Kesha said.

She noted that the demolition and reconstruction will be executed in phases, starting with the Apapa-bound section.

During this phase, traffic will be diverted to the Carter Bridge corridor, where a counter flow arrangement will be put in place to accommodate light vehicles only.

To minimize disruptions, Kesha assured that the Ministry of Works has already engaged with relevant traffic and security agencies, including the Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, LASTMA, and the Nigeria Police Force, to coordinate a robust traffic management plan.

She appealed to motorists, particularly trailer and truck drivers, to adhere to diversion signs and make use of alternative routes through Eko Bridge, Costain, Third Mainland Bridge, and Herbert Macaulay Way during the construction period.

“Our priority is safety. We are raising awareness early, especially for truck drivers who might not receive updates through the media,” she added.

Kesha also revealed that the Ministry will embark on advocacy campaigns across garages, motor parks, and transport unions to ensure that all stakeholders are adequately informed about the temporary restrictions.

The project, she confirmed, is expected to be completed by early March 2026, after which the bridge will reopen fully to traffic.

Upon completion, it is expected to enhance road safety, improve traffic flow, and extend the lifespan of the vital transport corridor.

Nigerian govt to demolish, rebuild fire-damaged Iddo Bridge in Lagos