The Digest:
The Federal Government has announced plans for a massive structural rehabilitation of the Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos, estimated to cost ₦3.8 trillion. Minister of Works, David Umahi, confirmed severe damage due to erosion, sand mining, and corrosion. The project will involve specialist contractors and public-private partnerships (PPP). The bridge, Nigeria’s longest, is vital for Lagos' 20 million residents. Umahi also revealed additional bridge repairs across the country, including the Carter Bridge and Jalingo Bridge. Government efforts to involve private capital are set to alleviate funding pressures.
Key Points:
- FG to spend ₦3.8 trillion on Third Mainland Bridge repairs.
- Rehabilitation caused by sand mining, erosion, and corrosion.
- Seven contractors are involved in the bid process under an EPC+F arrangement.
- New build is slightly cheaper but still a large investment.
- Emergency repairs are planned for several bridges nationwide.
- FEC also allocated ₦493 billion for the Kano–Katsina Road upgrade.
- EPC+F and PPP models to minimize reliance on the federal budget.
The Third Mainland Bridge project signals the government’s drive for infrastructure investment and strategic partnerships for sustainable development.
Sources: Punch, Premium Times, Channels TV
