The Federal Government has begun demolishing the 125-year-old Carter Bridge in Lagos for a ₦548.98 billion replacement. The project, which aims to replace the existing 1.525-kilometre bridge with a new 1.93-kilometre structure, is expected to be completed within 24 months.
A Bridge to Nowhere: The Carter Demolition
The decision to demolish the Carter Bridge was made after government-commissioned technical assessments found serious deterioration in its underwater structural components. Specialist divers and geologists examined the bridge's underwater components, which found that some of the piles supporting the bridge had detached from their pile caps. This was due to a combination of factors, including age, salt water, and heavy traffic.
A New Design for a New Era
The new bridge design includes additional ramps, a cable-stayed section, and navigational spans. The cable-stayed section will provide clearance for navigation, while the project includes two 105-metre navigational spans. The government is also planning additional protection for the new bridge foundations, including gabions, to guard against erosion and scouring.
Work Has Begun
The Federal Ministry of Works formally handed the project to China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) on May 6, 2026. The ministry said the company emerged as the most technically and commercially viable bidder after the procurement process. CCECC has completed about 15% of preliminary work, including establishing its project yard and constructing access roads. Piling is expected to begin before the end of the week.
Minimising Impact on Lagos Traffic
The government intends to keep the existing crossing operational while construction progresses, with regular monitoring and maintenance. This means commuters should expect changing traffic arrangements as demolition and construction move from one section to another. "If we close Carter Bridge, Lagos will go into katakata," said Works Minister Senator David Umahi, explaining why the bridge would continue to be maintained during reconstruction.
The Road Ahead
The project highlights the growing pressure on Lagos' major bridges as the city expands and traffic volumes increase. The Federal Government's decision to demolish the Carter Bridge and replace it with a new structure is a necessary step in addressing the city's infrastructure needs. With the project expected to be completed within 24 months, commuters can expect to see significant changes to the city's traffic landscape in the coming years.
Source: Pulse.ng
