The Federal Government is considering a proposal to replace the ageing Carter Bridge in Lagos with a N320 billion cable-stayed bridge—seen as a more durable and economical option compared to the N380 billion needed for full repairs.

Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, revealed this on Friday during an inspection of the bridge, according to NAN.

Umahi noted that while Julius Berger has completed 80% of repairs above the waterline, investigations uncovered significant underwater deterioration, including corroded piles and detached caps—issues similar to those that prompted truck restrictions on the Third Mainland Bridge.

Umahi recalled that structural concerns had been identified in previous assessments carried out in 2012 and 2019. He stated that constructing a new cable-stayed bridge—with a lifespan of over 100 years—would be more cost-effective than undertaking full rehabilitation.

He added that the Ministry of Works is currently evaluating proposals from Julius Berger and will forward its recommendations to President Bola Tinubu once the review is concluded.

“The Federal Government has expressed worry at the state of the Carter Bridge in Lagos State, saying that its condition is dangerous and requires urgent attention.

“The Minister of Works, Sen. Dave Umahi, raised the concern when he inspected the bridge alongside other engineers from the ministry,” the NAN report read in part.

Umahi revealed that only two companies have submitted proposals for the ongoing bridge rehabilitation projects in Lagos—BuildWell for the Third Mainland Bridge and Julius Berger for the Carter Bridge.

He noted that the government is currently reviewing both submissions and will present its recommendations to President Bola Tinubu for final approval.