Lagos govt diverts traffic on Ahmadu Bello Way as FG shuts Eko bridge

The Lagos State Government says it will divert traffic away from a 200-meter section of Ahmadu Bello Way, from 8.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 22. The Commissioner for Transportation, Mr Oluwaseun Osiyemi, said in a statement on Friday in Lagos that the diversion would cover Tiamiyu Savage Street to Adetokunbo Ademola Street. Osiyemi said that the diversion was to ensure a successful 2024 Sustainable Transport Festival.

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“Consequently, this 200-meter section of Ahmadu Bello Way will be completely closed off to traffic. The following alternative routes have been mapped out for motorists. Traffic from Bonny Camp heading to Ahmadu Bello Way inwards Adetokunbo Ademola Street will be diverted into Tiamiyu Savage Street to link Olosa Street and access Adetokunbo Ademola Street for the desired destinations.

“Traffic from Eko Hotel Roundabout/Adetokunbo Ademola Street heading to Bonny Camp Bridge will be diverted to Sanusi Fafunwa Street to link Akin Adesola Street and connect back to Ahmadu Bello Way to reach desired destinations,” he said.

The commissioner assured motorists that the state traffic management authority would be on ground to minimise inconveniences and ensure steady vehicular movement along the designated corridors.

“Motorists are urged to be patient. The total closure of the 200-meter distance from Tiamiyu Savage Street to the end of Ahmadu Bello Way/Adetokunbo Ademola Street is part of traffic management plan to create innovative ways of promoting non-motorised transportation in the state,” he said.

Osiyemi explained that the transport festival was a day in which hundreds of participants are expected to gather at the Ahmadu Bello Way venue for a day filled with fun and exciting activities. Activities on that day, he said, would include cycling, cycling training, cycling competitions, skating, stretches, music, and dance.

“The primary aim of the initiative is to raise awareness about the benefits of Non-Motorised Transport. Beyond reducing environmental pollution, it addresses the detrimental effects of insufficient physical activity on the health. The event also provides an opportunity for cities and governments to advance public transport systems, offering viable and reliable alternatives to private cars in urban areas,” the commissioner explained.

According to Osiyemi, the event, involves the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation in collaboration with other Ministries, Departments, Agencies, and Lagos Urban Development Initiative. He added that the event aimed at educating the public on the significance of environmental health and its direct impact on the well-being of the people.

FG shuts Eko bridge, ramps for 8-week repairs

The Federal Government on Friday shut down the Eko Bridge and Ramps for eight weeks for essential asphalt resurfacing. The Federal Controller of Works, Lagos, Mrs Olukorede Kesha, made this known in a statement, early hours , on Saturday in Lagos.

The Federal Ministry of Works plans essential asphalt resurfacing work on Eko Bridge and Ramps for eight weeks effective from Friday, Sept. 20, by 7.00 a.m, through Nov. 20.

“The closure will be full at some sections of the bridge and partial at other sections. This critical project aims to improve road safety and enhance the driving experience of motorists. The work involves milling of the existing asphalt and relaying new asphalt on the bridge and Ramps. This will address wear and tear and ensure a smoother, safer roadway.”

According to her, due to the closure, there will be detours and alternate routes for drivers. Providing information on how to navigate the area during the closure, she said motorists going to the Island from Funsho Williams Avenue, should use the service lane at Alaka to connect Costain and access Eko Bridge.

“Island: Access Costain to connect Eko Bridge and link Apongbon Apongbon inwards Eko Bridge: Link Costain to access Funsho Williams Avenue For Costain inwards Alaka/Funsho Williams Avenue: Pass through Apapa Road from Costain and link Oyingbo to access Adekunle then link to the Third Mainland Bridge. Surulere: Use Costain to link Breweries inwards the Abebe Village to connect Eric Moore/Bode Thomas,” she said.

Kesha urged residents and businesses in the affected area to plan their travel accordingly. The federal controller of Works assured the public that appropriate signage and traffic control measures wiould be in place to guide drivers and pedestrians.

She apologised for any inconvenience this might cause saying that she appreciates the public’s patience and cooperation as the ministry works to improve the country’s infrastructure.