The Federal Government has declared the Carter Bridge in Lagos beyond repair, following a detailed inspection of its structure. During a walk-through underdeck inspection, the Federal Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, said engineers, contractors, and consultants including Julius Berger all concluded that the bridge’s main axial section and ramps can no longer be salvaged. He noted that both report findings and on-site observations point clearly toward full replacement rather than partial rehabilitation.
Reasons for the Decision
Umahi explained that consultants reviewed the bridge’s underdeck and ramps extensively. Because damage to both those parts looks severe, it would cost too much time and money to try to repair them. He said that while they explored preserving some components, stakeholders agreed most of the structure must go. The original Carter Bridge, built in 1901, has been reconstructed several times, but age and wear seem now to have overtaken maintenance efforts. In addition, remnants from previous bridge parts remain submerged in the water, creating navigational hazards. Any new design will need to address those obstacles.
What Replacement Will Involve
Because the bridge handles heavy commuter, commercial and trader traffic, its closure or failure poses serious risks. The government is now considering a new alignment for Carter Bridge. Umahi insisted they must also consider whether any existing element can help reduce cost or time, but full replacement appears to be the likely outcome. Engineers are working on alignment plans, cost estimates, and design options now. Preliminary figures show that replacement costs could run into tens of billions of naira.
Stakeholder Reactions and Heritage Concerns
Many residents, traders, and commuters reacted with concern and nostalgia. Carter Bridge stands as one of Lagos’s oldest connections between Lagos Island and the mainland. While people appreciate its heritage, many believe safety must take priority. Some called for the government to preserve parts of the bridge as a monument or cultural site if possible. Others urged that any new construction must ensure minimal disruptions to traffic and the waterways.
What This Means for Lagos Communities
With Carter Bridge beyond repair, traffic patterns will change significantly. Commuters may have to use alternative bridges like Third Mainland Bridge or Eko Bridge more often. Traders who rely on quick access between Lagos Island and mainland may face delays, increased transport costs, and longer travel times. Also, safety risks will reduce once construction begins, since current structure could collapse or worsen at any time. Finally, funding, traffic diversion, waste management, and environmental issues (especially dealing with submerged remnants) must be managed carefully.
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