Lagos commuters face gridlock, as Gov’t embarks on road repairs

4 May 2026

By Imisioluwa Afunmiso

Thousands of commuters across Lagos are currently facing severe traffic congestion, with many spending between two to three hours on the road due to ongoing government-led road rehabilitation projects across key parts of the city.

Major corridors including the Ojo axis, Ikorodu Road, the Alagbado axis, and parts of the Oshodi-Apapa Expressway have experienced significant slowdowns as construction work narrows lanes and diverts traffic flow. For many residents, the situation has become a daily struggle.

“I leave home very early, yet I still get to work late almost every day,” said one commuter. “Sometimes we are stuck in one spot for over an hour without movement.”
Commercial drivers and bus operators, commonly known as danfo drivers, say the delays have also reduced the number of trips they can complete per day, directly affecting their income.

The Lagos State Government has stated that the ongoing road works are part of broader efforts to improve infrastructure, ease long-term traffic congestion, and enhance road safety.

Officials are urging residents to remain patient, noting that temporary disruptions are expected during construction periods.

However, commuters are increasingly calling for better traffic management, including improved diversion planning, more traffic officers on major routes, and clearer communication regarding construction timelines.

Despite the inconvenience, many residents acknowledge that the repairs may bring long-term relief; for now, however, the daily reality remains characterized by hours spent in traffic and rising frustration.