The Lagos State Government has announced the temporary suspension of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) lane enforcement along the Eko Bridge and Odo Iya-Alaro corridors in response to the escalating traffic congestion caused by ongoing rehabilitation works on the Ifako Bridge.
The decision, approved by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Hon. Sola Giwa, takes immediate effect and aims to provide relief for motorists affected by the partial closure of the Ifako-bound carriageway of the Third Mainland Bridge.
According to Giwa, the suspension is part of a tactical traffic management strategy designed to ease the current gridlock and ensure smoother vehicular movement across the affected routes.
“We are fully aware of the pressure commuters are experiencing due to the bridge repairs. This temporary measure will allow more flexibility in road usage and help absorb the excess traffic being diverted into the mainland,” he said.
The adjustment permits general vehicles to access the dedicated BRT lanes on the identified corridors during peak travel hours. However, Giwa emphasized that commercial buses and articulated trucks must continue to observe safety regulations and maintain order to prevent further road congestion or accidents.
The Special Adviser reiterated that the policy is a temporary palliative aligned with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES Plus Agenda, which prioritizes sustainable transportation and responsive infrastructure management.
In support of the directive, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has increased its operational presence in the affected areas. The agency has deployed additional personnel and equipment to monitor traffic flow, enforce compliance, and respond to any disruptions that may arise.
LASTMA General Manager, Mr. Bakare Oki Olalekan, assured residents of the agency’s readiness to manage the situation effectively.
“Our officers are on ground to maintain order and ensure compliance with this directive. We urge all motorists to obey traffic rules and cooperate with authorities as we work to ease the current situation,” he said.
The state government also advised road users to explore alternative routes, consider using public transport, and stay informed through official traffic advisories broadcast via radio, social media, and LASTMA’s toll-free hotline: 0800-0052-7862 (0800-00LASTMA).
Officials reaffirmed that the temporary policy reflects the government’s ongoing commitment to citizen-focused planning, proactive traffic solutions, and public safety during critical infrastructure projects.