The Lagos State Government has issued a travel advisory ahead of the annual Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, which is scheduled to take place tomorrow, Saturday, February 10, 2024. The state Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, announced the advisory on Friday, stating that the marathon will be held between the hours of 5.am and 2.pm.
According to Osiyemi, several routes will be temporarily closed to motorists during the marathon. These include Funsho Williams Avenue from Stadium, Surulere, Ikorodu Road to Anthony, Gbagada to Third Mainland Bridge, and Third Mainland Bridge (Inbound and Outbound). Other affected routes are Dolphin Road to Alfred Rewane Road, Falomo Roundabout to Bourdillon Road, Lekki Bridge to Freedom Way, and Akin-Adesola to Ahmadu Bello Way.
To ensure the smooth movement of traffic, Osiyemi provided alternative routes for motorists. These include using Apongbon bridge inwards Eko bridge through Costain Roundabout, Iponri, and Bode Thomas to reach a desired destination. Another option is to take the Eko Bridge through Costain Roundabout and Apapa Road to access Oyingbo/Jebba, and then continue on Herbert Macaulay Road to reach a desired destination.
Motorists can also choose to go through Victoria Island to link Independence Bridge and CMS bridge, which will allow them to access Apongbon inwards Ijora-Olopa to Iddo and Oyingbo. This route will enable them to connect to Herbert Macaulay Road and continue their journeys.
Additionally, the Third Mainland Bridge will be closed to motorists from 12.00 midnight tonight until the end of the marathon.
Osiyemi reassured motorists that outbound journeys from Ikorodu Road and Funsho Williams Avenue enroute Lagos Island will not be subjected to the diversions. He also emphasized that officers of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) have been deployed to the diversion points to ensure smooth traffic flow and the safety of motorists.
The Access Bank Lagos City Marathon is an annual event that attracts both local and international participants. As one of the largest marathons in Africa, it has gained significant popularity since its inception, bringing together athletes from various parts of the world.
Motorists are advised to plan their routes accordingly and adhere to the temporary closures implemented during the marathon. By following these measures, residents of Lagos can ensure a successful and enjoyable event for all participants and spectators.
