FG to replace ageing Lagos Carter bridge with N320bn cable-stayed bridge
The Federal Government is looking into a plan to replace the aging Carter Bridge in Lagos with a N320 billion cable-stayed bridge, which is viewed as a more sustainable and cost-effective alternative than the N380 billion required for comprehensive repairs.Senator Dave Umahi, the Minister of Works, shared this information on Friday during a bridge inspection, according to NAN.
Umahi pointed out that while Julius Berger has successfully completed 80% of the above-water repairs, investigations revealed considerable deterioration below the waterline, including corroded piles and dislodged caps—issues akin to those that led to truck restrictions on the Third Mainland Bridge.
He recalled that structural issues had been detected in prior evaluations conducted in 2012 and 2019. He asserted that building a new cable-stayed bridge—with a lifespan exceeding 100 years—would be more financially viable than performing full rehabilitation.
He further mentioned that the Ministry of Works is presently assessing proposals from Julius Berger and intends to forward its suggestions to President Bola Tinubu after completing the review.
“The Federal Government has expressed concern over the condition of the Carter Bridge in Lagos State, stating that it is hazardous and needs immediate attention.
“The Minister of Works, Sen. Dave Umahi, raised this issue while inspecting the bridge with other engineers from the ministry,” the NAN report indicated in part.
Umahi disclosed that only two companies have submitted proposals for the current bridge rehabilitation projects in Lagos—BuildWell for the Third Mainland Bridge and Julius Berger for the Carter Bridge.
He emphasized that the government is scrutinizing both proposals and will submit its recommendations to President Bola Tinubu for final approval.
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