ABUJA: The Federal Government is considering two major options for the future of Lagos’ Third Mainland Bridge a N3.8 trillion rehabilitation or a complete rebuild estimated at N3.6 trillion.
The Ministry of Works, David Umahi, disclosed this after presenting a proposal to the Federal Executive Council (FEC), which has now approved preliminary steps for the project under an Engineering, Procurement, Construction and Financing (EPC+F) arrangement.
Underwater investigations in 2013 and 2019 revealed severe deterioration of the bridge’s piers caused by illegal sand mining, ocean currents, and corrosion.
Umahi explained that while Carter Bridge was found to be beyond repair, with replacement estimated at N359 billion, the Third Mainland Bridge could either be rehabilitated or rebuilt from scratch.
FEC approved the engagement of at least seven specialist contractors for detailed investigations, design, and bidding.
Read also:
- Umahi Defends Tinubu- Highway Project, Denies Corruption, and Clarifies Procurement Process
- FG set to inject N2 trillion Naira into dwindling economy
Funding will be sought through public-private partnerships, with talks already underway with Deutsche Bank.
Built between 1976 and 1990, the Third Mainland Bridge has undergone several repairs, including a 110-day rehabilitation last year. Recently, heavy-duty vehicles were banned from using it over safety concerns.
Umahi assured that the government remains committed to ensuring the safety and durability of the bridge, alongside other approved infrastructure projects nationwide, such as the Kano-Katsina Road upgrade, Jalingo Bridge in Taraba, and Iddo Bridge in Lagos.
