₦3.8tn to Fix, ₦3.6tn to Rebuild Lagos Bridge” Umahi

Minister of Works, David Umahi, has revealed that fixing Lagos’ Third Mainland Bridge will cost more than rebuilding it. He announced this after a Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting in Abuja.

According to Umahi, detailed assessments show major structural damage to the bridge caused by illegal sand mining, erosion, and corrosion. “Rehabilitation will cost about ₦3.8 trillion, while reconstruction is estimated at ₦3.6 trillion,” he said.

He added that seven specialist contractors have been approved to conduct further investigations and submit proposals under an Engineering, Procurement, Construction and Financing (EPC+F) arrangement.

Umahi also disclosed that the Carter Bridge is beyond repair, with Julius Berger recommending full replacement at a cost of ₦359 billion. The FEC has approved a public-private partnership (PPP) approach for both bridges and is engaging financiers, including Deutsche Bank.

“The substructure of these bridges has suffered from years of neglect and damaging human activities,” Umahi stated. “Delaying action could be dangerous. Whether we rehabilitate or rebuild, the cost and complexity are enormous.”

The FEC also approved emergency interventions for other damaged bridges across Taraba, Nasarawa, Niger, Kogi, Kwara, and Lagos. These projects will be formally submitted to the President for final approval.

In addition, ₦493 billion has been allocated for the Kano–Katsina Road upgrade and construction of a new Carter Bridge. The rising cost now puts Section One of the 152km road at ₦68 billion and Section Two at ₦66.1 billion.

“These massive projects cannot rely solely on the federal budget,” Umahi emphasized. “We’re looking to attract private investment while maintaining government oversight and quality assurance.”