The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced the temporary closure of the Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos for urgent emergency maintenance.
The Federal Government of Nigeria has recently announced its decision to temporarily close the Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos for necessary emergency maintenance.
This decision follows an underwater investigation carried out by the government, revealing the urgent need for repairs on the bridge.
A Thorough Inspection
Mr. David Umahi, the Minister of Works, disclosed this decision during his tour of ongoing road projects in Lagos and Ogun States.
He revealed that the federal government plans to resurface the bridge as part of the maintenance work.
A budget of N60 billion has already been approved for the maintenance of both the top and underneath sections of the bridge.
Umahi, along with a team of engineers and top directors from the Federal Ministry of Works, embarked on a boat trip from Ebute Ero Jetty to inspect the structural components of the bridges on the Lagoon.
Their journey took them to the Third Mainland Bridge, Carter Bridge, and Eko Bridge, the oldest of the three bridges connecting Lagos Island to the mainland.
The minister also inspected the top of the Third Mainland Bridge.
The Urgent Need for Intervention
While addressing journalists, Umahi shared technical details of the deterioration observed in various underwater structural components of all the bridges.
He emphasized the urgent need for emergency intervention to preserve these critical infrastructures.
The government is particularly concerned about the structural integrity of the components underneath the three bridges that connect the mainland and the island.
Plans have been announced for another round of emergency repairs on the Third Mainland Bridge due to the level of deterioration observed.
Umahi indicated that a contractor would soon be mobilized to the site to work between midnight and 4:00 a.m. to minimize the impact on motorists.
He also noted plans for a full Lagos bridges report, encompassing security measures to prevent vandalism.
A consultant-drafted proposal will reach the Federal Executive Council within 30 days for evaluation.
Ikorodu-Sagamu Way
Umahi also inspected the Ikorodu-Sagamu dual carriageway, a critical link between Lagos and Ogun States.
He expressed satisfaction with the project’s progress, noting that the 30.5 km Ikorodu-Sagamu Road is about 85% completed.
Moreover, he announced a redesign for the Ikorodu segment.
The minister praised Arab Contractors, project handlers, for complying with standards and contractual terms.
While inspecting the Ikorodu-Itoikin road, Umahi urged the Lagos government to assume responsibility for maintenance while the federal government focuses on rehabilitating and converting the 34 km single-lane road into a dual carriageway.
Edo Federal Roads
Responding to the dilapidated condition of federal roads in Edo State, Umahi expressed the ministry’s willingness to expedite approval for the state government to carry out rehabilitation work on the affected portions.
He assured that if Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki approached him for permission, he would grant approval within two hours, even if the request was sent via WhatsApp or any other means.
However, he also mentioned his intention to visit Edo State and personally assess the condition of the roads.
Accompanying Umahi on his tour were Mr. Adedamola Kuti, Director of Federal Highways, South West; Mr. Omotayo Awosanya, Director of Highways Bridges and Designs; Mrs. Olukorede Kesha, Lagos Controller of Works; and her Ogun counterpart, Mrs. Forosola Oloyede.
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FAQs
Why is the Third Mainland Bridge being closed for maintenance?
The bridge is being closed for maintenance due to the deterioration observed in various underwater structural components. The government is concerned about the structural integrity of the components underneath the bridges connecting the mainland and the island.
What is the budget for the maintenance work?
The federal government has approved a budget of N60 billion for the maintenance of both the top and underneath sections of the Third Mainland Bridge.
When will the maintenance work be carried out?
The maintenance work will be carried out between midnight and 4:00 a.m. to minimize the impact on motorists.
What measures are being taken to prevent vandalism on the bridges?
A comprehensive report for all bridges in Lagos will be prepared, including a proposal for security infrastructure and surveillance to prevent vandalism.
What is the progress of the Ikorodu-Sagamu dual carriageway project?
The Ikorodu-Sagamu dual carriageway project is about 85% completed, and the Ikorodu axis of the project will be redesigned.