3rd M\Bridge Fully Opens, Repairs Gulped N1b

All was set this afternoon for the full opening of the 3rd Mainland Bridge in Lagos, Southwest Nigeria.

The bridge was partially closed to traffic about 16 weeks ago to facilitate its repairs.

Works minister, Mike Onolememen was being expected at press time to perform the official ceremony. A canopy was erected and tables set on the bridge this morning for the event.

The longest bridge linking Lagos Island with the Mainland was partially closed to traffic on Sunday 8 July, 2012 while repair works commenced on it on Monday, 9 July, 2012.

Initially, commercial activities were almost paralysed at Idumota and many other parts of Lagos Island as the closure of the bridge created a lot of hardship for commuters and motorists travelling from the Mainland to the Island.

At least 700 officers of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, LASTMA, were deployed to areas close to the bridge to ameliorate the plight of motorists and commuters.

Speaking with P.M.NEWS today, Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Kayode Opeifa, said the repair was completed and the bridge was ready for use since Sunday.

He confirmed that it will be fully open to traffic today.

Sources said the repair gulped about N1 billion.

The bridge was built in the 70s by the military administration of General Olusegun Obasanjo. It was completed and commissioned by the regime of military President, General Ibrahim Babangida.

—Moyo Fabiyi & Jamiu Yisa