This article highlights the seven best bridges in Lagos. The mega city, Lagos, is home to millions of people and is surrounded by islands, lagoons, and waterways.
With so many people trying to get around the city, it’s essential to have a way to cross these bodies of water, bridges play a crucial role in keeping the city moving smoothly.
They serve as vital links, connecting different parts of the city and making it easier for people, goods, and services to flow through. Some areas of Lagos would be completely cut off without these bridges.
As the city continues to grow, the need for more bridges will only increase. While there are already several major bridges in the city, the government is still building more to make life easier for its residents. Currently, there are even a few bridges under construction in Lagos.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the best bridges in the city.
Best Bridges in Lagos
- Third Mainland Bridge
- Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge
- Carter Bridge
- Eko Bridge
- Oshodi Bridge
- Ojuelegba Flyover Bridge
- Otedola Bridge
7 Best Bridges in Lagos
1. Third Mainland Bridge
Third Mainland Bridge is the most popular bridge in Lagos and also the longest of the three bridges connecting the mainland to the island. It’s hard to ignore the significance of this bridge in ensuring the seamless flow of movement in the city.
The bridge, also known as the Ibrahim Babangida Boulevard, spans a distance of 11.8km and was built by Julius Berger Nigeria PLC, one of the best construction companies in Nigeria. It held the title of being the longest bridge in Africa until 1996.
The bridge stretches from Oworonshoki to Adeniji Adele on Lagos Island and is also accessible from Herbert Macaulay Way, Yaba to the mid-section of the bridge. To ensure the safety of commuters, the bridge has undergone major repairs and maintenance to prevent any disaster that could occur.
The Third Mainland Bridge is always very busy throughout the week, as residents in major parts of Lagos such as Ikeja, Ikorodu, Yaba, Oworonshoki, and Oshodi use the bridge for their daily commutes to their businesses or jobs. If this bridge were to become inaccessible, the impact would be felt throughout the city.
2. Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge
Another significant bridge in Lagos is the Lekki Ikoyi Link Bridge, which connects Lekki Phase 1 to the Ikoyi axis of Lagos Island. This cable-stayed bridge was commissioned on the 29th of May 2013 and is the first of its kind in Nigeria. It was built by one of the best construction companies in Nigeria, Julius Berger.
Aside from its practical purpose, the Lekki Ikoyi Link Bridge is also a sight to behold. It has been featured in many movies and music videos because of its stunning design.
Furthermore, the bridge has pedestrian sidewalks, which are often used by runners and entertainers.
The famous toll gate is located at the end of the bridge in the Lekki Axis, and all vehicles are charged a standard fee before they are allowed to use the bridge. The bridge itself is 1.36km long, with a 90m high pylon in the middle.
3. Carter Bridge
Carter Bridge is one of the oldest Mainland bridges in Lagos. It was constructed in 1901 and remained the only bridge connecting the mainland to the Island before the Eko Bridge and the Third Mainland Bridge were built.
Named after Sir Gilbert Thomas Carter, the bridge holds a lot of historical significance. After independence in 1960, the bridge was dismantled and reconstructed using a better building technique.
The bridge starts from Iddo on the mainland and ends in Idumota on the island. It serves a very crucial function to Lagosians, particularly for the residents on the mainland.
Despite being taken over by Idumota traders, the bridge still retains its posture and strength.
4. Eko Bridge
Eko Bridge is fourth on our list, and also among the three bridges that link the mainland to the island.
It stretches from Ijora Olopa on Lagos Mainland to Apongbon on Lagos Island and was built in phases between 1965 and 1975 to make transportation easier for people.
The lagoon section of the bridge is approximately 430 meters long and was one of the first major projects constructed by the renowned Julius Berger PLC.
5. Oshodi Bridge
The Oshodi ‘Skywalk’ Bridge is a remarkable feat of engineering in Lagos. It is the longest free-standing pedestrian bridge in the city, spanning about 53.4km in length and 6m in width, providing ample space for pedestrians to move across both sides of the road.
To access the bridge, there is a working lift available, and a staircase in case of emergencies.
6. Ojuelegba Flyover Bridge
The Ojuelegba Flyover Bridge is a bustling pedestrian bridge located in Ojuelegba. Its construction was aimed at easing traffic congestion in the Lagos Mainland area. The bridge is known for its vibrant atmosphere, particularly at night, and features beautiful murals painted on the walls.
It provides access to a wide range of destinations across the mainland, including Obalende, Ikeja, Surulere, Mushin, Ikorodu, Yaba, Apapa, Ajegunle, and many more. However, it is important to note that the bridge has a history of accidents and crime, so it’s important to remain vigilant while using it.
7. Otedola Bridge
The Otedola Bridge is another famous bridge in Lagos. It is the only major link connecting the Ojodu Berger area of Lagos to travelers going in and out of Lagos.
Traffic can be very heavy and unpredictable on Otedola Bridge, but it still holds immense importance to Lagosians and visitors to Lagos.
Wrap Up
The bridges in Lagos State will always hold a vital position in the economy. They are not just physical structures but also serve as lifelines that connect communities, ease traffic congestion, promote commerce, and provide breathtaking views of this bustling city.
