The Federal Government is considering replacing the Carter Bridge in Lagos with a new N320 billion cable-stayed bridge, following serious safety concerns about the ageing structure.
Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, revealed this on Friday during an inspection visit to the bridge, according to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
Umahi disclosed that although 80% of above-water repairs have been completed by construction company Julius Berger, fresh investigations have uncovered severe damage under the water, including corroded piles and detached caps — similar issues that led to restrictions on the Third Mainland Bridge.
Past assessments carried out in 2012 and 2019 had already warned about the weakening structure, Umahi said.
“Repairing the bridge and its connecting ramps would cost over N380 billion, while building a brand-new cable-stayed bridge will cost around N320 billion and last over 100 years,” the minister stated.
He added that the Federal Government is reviewing proposals submitted by Julius Berger and will send recommendations to President Bola Tinubu after final assessments.
Julius Berger’s Regional Manager, Thomas Christe, confirmed the firm began work on the Carter Bridge in 2024, focusing on visible structures like handrails and pile caps above the water. However, he admitted the underwater damage is far worse than expected and the current contract doesn’t cover full-scale rehabilitation.
Christe noted that the company has advised the government to consider building a completely new bridge, and revealed that international investors have shown interest in financing the project.
The Minister emphasized that the real issue lies with the structural foundation, not just surface-level repairs, stressing the urgent need for either major reconstruction or total replacement.
Currently, only two companies are handling bridge projects in Lagos — BuildWell for the Third Mainland Bridge and Julius Berger for Carter Bridge. The government’s final decision will depend on the outcome of ongoing reviews.