Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge

A cable-stayed span across the lagoon, the Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge connects the affluent districts of Ikoyi and Lekki over an arm of the Lagos lagoon known as the Five Cowrie Creek. Opened in 2013, it was among the first major toll bridges of its kind in the city, and its single angled pylon and fan of steel cables have quickly become a modern emblem of Lagos.

The bridge eased a notorious bottleneck, giving drivers a direct route between two of the city's fastest-growing, upscale areas and relieving pressure on older crossings. Stretching well over a kilometre, it is lit at night in changing colours that reflect on the water, making it a favourite backdrop for photographs, music videos and social media.

Beyond its traffic role, it has become a public space. A dedicated walkway attracts joggers, walkers and fitness groups, especially in the cooler early mornings and at weekends, when Lagosians come to exercise and enjoy the breeze and views over the creek. The sight of the skyline and the passing boats gives the crossing a recreational character unusual for a piece of transport infrastructure.

For visitors, the bridge is easy to appreciate either by driving across, paying the modest toll, or by joining the walkers on the pedestrian path. It sits close to the restaurants, hotels and nightlife of Victoria Island and Lekki, so it fits naturally into an evening exploring that part of the city. Photographers favour dusk, when the lights come on and the water turns reflective. As a symbol of contemporary, aspirational Lagos, quite different from the historic core on Lagos Island, the Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge captures the ambition and pace of Nigeria's largest metropolis.