FG links Carter Bridge failure to detached piles, corrosion, illegal mining

The Federal Government has linked the failure of Lagos' Carter Bridge to detached piles, significant corrosion, inadequate maintenance, and illegal sand mining, according to Minister of Works Dave Umahi. During an inspection of the ongoing reconstruction of the Carter and Iddo Bridges on August 24, 2026, Umahi disclosed that the 1.58-kilometre Carter Bridge, in service for roughly 60 to 70 years, has suffered considerable structural deterioration.

He added that the Federal Government aims to finish the reconstruction within 24 months, as opposed to the initially proposed 36 months, while ensuring the bridge's maintenance to avoid complete closure and exacerbate traffic congestion in Lagos.

Umahi elaborated on the structural issues during his inspection, stating that underwater surveys revealed detached piles from their pile caps, significant corrosion, and sand scouring that had weakened the structure. To maintain functionality, the on-top decking elements have been preserved, and solar lights installed, while the under-deck elements are being maintained as work progresses.

In July 2025, Umahi had suggested reviewing a proposal to replace the aging Carter Bridge with a more durable and cost-effective N320 billion cable-stayed structure, which he considered less expensive than the estimated N380 billion for full-scale repairs. He explained that shutting the bridge completely would create a severe traffic crisis in Lagos, so the reconstruction would incorporate engineering and design improvements, such as flying one carriageway over the other and increasing the number of ramps to alleviate congestion around the ramp sections.

The Federal Executive Council approved in August 2025 the Federal Ministry of Works' proposal to evaluate Public-Private Partnership (PPP) and Engineering, Procurement, Construction plus Financing (EPC+F) options for the new Carter Bridge and Third Mainland Bridge construction. The Federal Government is currently proceeding with the Carter Bridge reconstruction while considering long-term solutions for the aging infrastructure.