Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu visited the Independence Bridge at Bonny Camp this morning to personally assess the ongoing repair work spearheaded by the Federal Ministry of Works.
In a candid statement addressing the severe traffic congestion that gripped Lagos yesterday, the governor extended a heartfelt apology to residents, promising swift action to ease the burden on commuters.
“I sincerely apologise to all Lagosians for the severe traffic congestion experienced yesterday,” Sanwo-Olu said. “I understand the frustration, delays, and disruption this has caused in your daily lives. As someone who also moves through this city, I feel your pain, and we do not take your patience and resilience for granted.”
Sanwo-Olu explained that the repair of Independence Bridge, a critical link in Lagos’ transport network, was a long-overdue necessity. “The decision to fix the Independence Bridge was not made overnight. This repair has been in the works for over three years, carefully planned to avert a potential disaster,” he revealed. The bridge’s structural integrity had weakened to a point where further delays could have risked collapse, endangering countless lives.
While emphasizing the safety imperative, Sanwo-Olu acknowledged the toll on Lagosians. “We are working closely with all relevant agencies to improve traffic management and find immediate solutions to ease the congestion,” he assured. Additional traffic monitoring officials and security personnel have been deployed to keep vehicles moving, with the governor stressing active involvement: “We are not just watching from the sidelines.”
In a bid to lighten the load on roads, Sanwo-Olu called on businesses and organizations to adapt. “I urge businesses across Lagos to explore flexible work arrangements, including remote work and hybrid models,” he said. “A temporary shift in work culture can go a long way in reducing traffic pressure and supporting our collective wellbeing.”
The governor wrapped up with a plea for patience and a vision for progress. “Lagosians, I ask for your continued cooperation. Your safety remains our priority, and we are committed to ensuring that our city remains not only a hub of progress but also a place where infrastructure serves the people effectively,” he concluded.
