The Federal Government has attributed the failure of Lagos’ Carter Bridge to detached piles, significant corrosion, inadequate maintenance and illegal sand mining.
The Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, disclosed this during an inspection of the ongoing reconstruction of the Carter and Iddo Bridges in Lagos on Monday, August 24, 2026.
He said the 1.58-kilometre Carter Bridge, which has been in existence for about 60 to 70 years, suffered significant structural deterioration and is now undergoing reconstruction.
The minister also said the Federal Government is working to complete the reconstruction within 24 months, instead of the initially proposed 36 months, while maintaining the bridge to prevent a complete closure that could worsen traffic congestion in Lagos.
What he is saying
Umahi said an underwater survey of the bridge revealed that several piles had detached from their pile caps, while corrosion and sand scouring had further weakened the structure.
- Umahi said, “Carter Bridge has stayed over 60-70 years, and no maintenance. The lifespan of every bridge is about 50 years.”
- He said, “A lot of the piles have detached from the pile caps. It’s like, akin to the leg being removed from the hip. And also, a lot of rust had happened, you know, within the piles.”
- Umahi said, “Scouring, and then illegal mining of sand, also contributed to the failure of this Carter Bridge.”
- He said the government was doing everything possible to complete the reconstruction within 24 months while continuing to monitor and maintain the underwater elements.
The minister said the government has maintained the on-top decking elements and installed solar lights, while the under-deck elements are also being maintained as work continues.
More insight
Umahi had in July 2025 said the Federal Government was reviewing a proposal…
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