Damaged Piles: FG May Shut Section of Eko Bridge

Damaged Piles: FG May Shut Section of Eko Bridge
Warned that the condition of these piles poses a serious safety concern
Beyond Eko Bridge, attention is also on the Carter Bridge, which has reportedly exceeded its lifespan

The Federal Government is considering shutting down part of the Eko Bridge in Lagos after discovering serious structural damage that could pose a risk to motorists.

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Eko Hot Blog reports that this was revealed by the Federal Controller of Works in Lagos, Olufemi Dare, who explained that the decision would depend on approval from the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi.

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According to Dare, engineers and officials from the Federal Ministry of Works recently carried out a joint inspection of the bridge alongside contractors and consultants. During the assessment, they found that about eight of the bridge’s supporting piles had been severely damaged.

He warned that the condition of these piles poses a serious safety concern. In some cases, the concrete covering the structures has been stripped away, exposing the steel reinforcement beneath largely due to the activities of miners and scavengers operating around the bridge.

If the minister approves the recommendation, one carriageway of the bridge may be completely closed to traffic to allow for urgent repairs.

Dare also disclosed that Umahi is expected to visit Lagos soon to personally inspect the bridge and make a final decision on the next steps.

Damaged Piles: FG May Shut Section of Eko Bridge — Eko Bridge

Beyond Eko Bridge, attention is also on the Carter Bridge, which has reportedly exceeded its lifespan. Authorities say the bridge can no longer be salvaged and will be demolished and replaced with a new structure.

A contractor has already been selected for the project, with China Civil Engineering Construction Company emerging as the preferred bidder after a competitive process. The minister is expected to officially hand over the reconstruction project during his visit.

The inspection tour will also include the Marine Bridge, where some defects have been observed despite ongoing construction work. Officials say the visit will help determine what further action is needed.

In addition, Umahi will assess progress on the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project. According to Dare, the first section of the highway is nearly complete, with about 98% of the work done. Motorists can already travel roughly 47 km on the concrete stretch from Ahmadu Bello Way to Eleko.

Overall, the minister’s visit is expected to shape key decisions aimed at improving safety and accelerating infrastructure development across Lagos.