The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has dismissed reports suggesting that the Federal Government approved over N3.6 trillion for the rehabilitation of the Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos, insisting that no such figure has been sanctioned.
During an inspection of major infrastructure projects in Lagos, the minister explained that the figures in circulation were only preliminary estimates from a single consultant, which were never adopted. “What we presented was not a request for N3.6 trillion or N3.8 trillion. We only noted what Julius Berger had indicated, but we do not trust those figures because one consultant alone cannot give a reliable estimate. That is why we asked for approval to engage at least seven global contractors to carry out investigations, designs, and proposals. No approval has been given for any figure,” he clarified.
He further revealed that earlier investigations dating back several years had shown significant damage to both the Carter and Third Mainland Bridges due to chlorination, rust, and illegal sand mining. “The level of degradation of Carter Bridge is the same as that of Third Mainland Bridge. The steel casings have rusted, concrete reinforcements have been exposed, and the defects are progressing in geometrical progression,” he explained.
According to him, the Federal Executive Council directed multiple contractors and independent consultants to determine whether full rehabilitation or complete reconstruction would be more cost-effective. He also disclosed that private sector participation had been approved under a public–private partnership arrangement, with the option of tolling once projects are completed.
On the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, the minister commended contractors for moving ahead of schedule despite technical challenges. He directed that weekly televised updates be provided by at least two stations to ensure transparency.
He urged Nigerians and the media to avoid spreading misinformation, warning that inaccurate reports could mislead the public and undermine ongoing efforts. “Facts must be reported correctly. Anything short of that only breeds confusion and distracts from the work at hand,” he stated.
