In response to growing traffic congestion caused by the ongoing rehabilitation of the Ifako Bridge expansion joint, the Lagos State Government has announced a temporary suspension of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) lane enforcement along the Eko Bridge and Odo Iya-Alaro corridors.
The directive, which takes immediate effect, was approved by Sola Giwa, Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, as part of a broader traffic relief strategy coordinated by the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA).
Giwa described the move as a “transitional and conditional” measure designed to absorb the surge in vehicular movement expected due to the partial closure of the Ifako-bound carriageway on the Third Mainland Bridge.
“We recognize the pressure on major ingress routes into the Lagos Mainland,” Giwa said. “This temporary suspension is a strategic intervention to alleviate traffic gridlock, reduce commute times, and maintain overall mobility during the critical bridge repairs.”
Under this directive, private vehicles will now be allowed access to previously BRT-exclusive lanes on the two corridors during peak travel hours. However, commercial buses and articulated vehicles are still required to strictly adhere to traffic safety regulations and designated loading protocols to prevent further disruption.
LASTMA General Manager, Bakare Oki Olalekan, confirmed that the agency has deployed operatives across key points to ensure compliance, manage flow, and deliver real-time traffic response as part of the government’s dynamic traffic mitigation plan.
“Our officers are strategically positioned to facilitate smooth vehicular movement while ensuring no abuse of this temporary relief,” Olalekan stated. “We urge all motorists to act responsibly and respect traffic rules during this period.”
The government is also encouraging residents to explore alternative routes, adopt modal shift strategies where possible (including public transport options), and stay informed via official radio updates and digital traffic platforms.
This latest measure underscores the state’s proactive approach to managing urban mobility challenges, especially during large-scale infrastructure works. While the suspension is not permanent, it represents a carefully calculated response to a pressing urban issue.
The Lagos State Government has reiterated its commitment to minimizing public inconvenience, enhancing infrastructure resilience, and ensuring sustainable transportation solutions for Africa’s most populous city.
