Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has urged residents to conduct their business online unless they have urgent reasons to be on Victoria Island in the coming weeks.
He explained that this would help alleviate traffic congestion resulting from the ongoing rehabilitation of the Independence Bridge.
Sanwo-Olu made the statement on Thursday while inspecting the construction site, accompanied by members of his cabinet and senior officials from the Federal Ministry of Works.
The governor encouraged residents to adopt virtual meetings and remote work, similar to practices during the COVID-19 pandemic, to help ease traffic congestion.
“Let’s think outside the box. If you don’t have urgent business on Victoria Island in the next two to three weeks, use social media, telephone calls, Zoom, or online meetings instead. Plan ahead—if a physical visit isn’t necessary, then stay put,” he advised.
Sanwo-Olu also urged Lagosians to adjust their travel schedules, recommending off-peak hours for those who must go out.
“If you don’t need to leave at 7:00 a.m., wait until 10:00 a.m. Let those with pressing commitments move first. By staggering travel times, we can ease pressure on the roads,” he explained.
To further reduce congestion, he announced that the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) will deploy additional officers to affected areas, including personnel reassigned from other parts of the city.
“You will see a significant presence of LASTMA officers on the roads. We are bringing in personnel from other areas to ensure effective traffic management,” Sanwo-Olu assured.
He also disclosed that alternative measures, such as counterflow lanes, are being considered to improve traffic flow.
The Independence Bridge, which connects Ahmadu Bello Way to Marina and CMS, was closed for urgent repairs, leading to severe traffic disruptions in Victoria Island and its surrounding areas.
Sanwo-Olu reassured Lagosians that although the situation is inconvenient, the repairs are essential to prevent a potential disaster.
“We understand the disruption, but this work is necessary for everyone’s safety. Let’s cooperate and manage the situation together,” he said.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed, explore alternative routes, and plan their movements carefully as the rehabilitation progresses.
