Federal Govt Plans N30bn Intervention, Stabilises Eko Bridge, Starts Carter

The Federal Government has announced plans to commit about N30 billion towards emergency repairs and long-term rehabilitation of the ageing Eko Bridge in Lagos, while also commencing preparations for the construction of a new Carter Bridge.

The Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, disclosed this during an inspection tour of federal roads and bridge projects in Lagos, where he said the interventions were part of efforts to protect critical infrastructure and improve transportation in the commercial city.

Umahi said immediate stabilisation works had commenced on Eko Bridge following structural concerns linked to illegal sand dredging, repeated accidents involving heavy-duty trucks and fire incidents caused by trading activities beneath the bridge.

According to the minister, an emergency intervention estimated at N12 billion had been forwarded for approval, while an existing contract worth about N18 billion covers underwater repairs and replacement of damaged structural components.

“The immediate intervention is going to cost about N12 billion. We have sent it through the appropriate channels, and by next week, I will be meeting Mr President for intervention funds to restore that bridge,” Umahi said.

He explained that engineers were adopting faster construction methods to ensure timely completion of the rehabilitation without compromising safety standards.

Umahi said the project would involve excavating areas beneath the bridge and constructing reinforced concrete pavement to achieve the required clearance for heavy-duty vehicles.

He added that future bridge designs by the ministry would adopt a minimum clearance height of 6.5 metres to accommodate larger vehicles and improve durability.

The minister also directed the Federal Controller of Works in Lagos to establish a task force to address illegal activities and encroachment around bridge corridors.

Umahi announced that mobilisation for the construction of a new Carter Bridge would begin this month, with physical work expected to commence on Monday.

He commended China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), the contractor handling the project, for mobilising equipment and personnel despite the government’s mobilisation payment yet to be released.

“We have not even paid the mobilisation fee, but they have shown willingness to partner with the Federal Government and demonstrate capacity,” he said.

The minister said government would proceed with processing the statutory 30 per cent mobilisation payment for the project.

He also praised the project consultant, Advanced Engineering Consultant (AEC), for resolving technical and stakeholder challenges that had affected the original design.

Umahi said more than 80 per cent of the issues surrounding the project alignment had been addressed, including concerns involving sensitive areas around the Oba of Lagos’ Palace.

The new Carter Bridge, he explained, would feature modern engineering designs, including two navigation spans measuring 105 metres each to support water transportation and maritime activities.

According to Director of Advanced Engineering Consultant, Olatinwo Alatinwo, the bridge would also have a 12-metre clearance height and wider navigation spans compared with the existing structure.

Alatinwo said the revised design would reduce disruption to surrounding communities while providing a long-term transport solution capable of meeting future demands.

CCECC Nigeria Limited Project Manager, Dang Yinan, assured the government that the company was ready to begin construction immediately.