FG Links Carter Bridge Failure to Corrosion and Mining

The Federal Government has linked the failure of the Carter Bridge in Lagos to detached piles, significant corrosion, inadequate maintenance, and illegal sand mining. Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, made this announcement during an inspection of the ongoing reconstruction of the Carter and Iddo Bridges on August 24, 2026.

The 1.58-kilometre Carter Bridge, which has been in existence for approximately 60 to 70 years, is undergoing reconstruction due to significant structural deterioration. Umahi stated that the reconstruction is expected to be completed within 24 months, a reduction from the initially proposed 36 months, to avoid complete closure that could exacerbate traffic congestion in Lagos.

An underwater survey revealed that several piles had detached from their caps, and corrosion had weakened the structure. The reconstruction will include engineering improvements, such as flying one carriageway over another and increasing ramp numbers.

The Federal Executive Council approved a review of Public-Private Partnership options for the construction of a new Carter Bridge and Third Mainland Bridge in August 2025.