In a fresh development impacting road users across the metropolis, the Lagos State Government has announced a key update regarding the temporary closure of a well-known rail crossing, citing ongoing infrastructure upgrades and safety concerns. The closure, which affects the busy Level Crossing at Yaba, is part of broader efforts to modernize the city’s transport network and improve the Lagos Red Line rail project.
According to a statement from the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), the closure is necessary to facilitate ongoing construction work on the Red Line corridor — a high-capacity rail service designed to link major hubs from Agbado to Marina.
The Yaba level crossing will be closed to vehicular traffic from 9 p.m. Friday through 6 a.m. Monday, during which engineers will install new track components and reinforce safety features. Pedestrians, however, will still be allowed to pass through designated paths with caution.
“The closure is critical to ensuring that the Red Line rail project progresses smoothly and safely,” the statement read. “We are appealing to all Lagosians for understanding and cooperation as we move closer to delivering a world-class urban transit system.”
To minimize disruption, the government has unveiled clearly marked alternative routes for motorists:
Yaba-bound drivers are advised to use Ojuelegba Road or Herbert Macaulay Way.
Commercial buses will be rerouted through Sabo, while okadas and tricycles will be barred from entering the restricted areas altogether.
Law enforcement officers and LASTMA officials will be deployed across strategic junctions to ease traffic flow and guide commuters.
The Red Line rail project is a cornerstone of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s multi-modal transport agenda. Once completed, it’s expected to cut travel time across Lagos by nearly 50%, significantly reducing road congestion and providing a more efficient alternative for over 500,000 daily commuters.
However, the project’s construction has occasionally disrupted local routes, especially around busy crossings like Yaba, Mushin, and Agege. Officials stress that these closures are temporary but essential steps toward long-term urban mobility goals.
Reactions from Lagosians have been mixed. While many applaud the government’s efforts to improve public transportation, others have expressed frustration over the lack of real-time traffic information and short notice of closures.
“I support the project, but they need to communicate better,” said Tunde Owolabi, a Yaba resident. “People are always caught off-guard. One moment the road is open, next thing it’s blocked.”
LAMATA, in response, has promised to enhance public awareness going forward, leveraging radio broadcasts, traffic apps, and social media to notify the public ahead of time.
The Lagos State Government is urging residents to remain patient and vigilant during this period. While the temporary inconvenience is real, officials insist the long-term payoff will be worth it — a smarter, safer, and more efficient Lagos for all.
