Federal Government Plans Demolition of Lagos’s Carter Bridge Labeled “Irredeemable” After Inspection
The Federal Government of Nigeria is poised to demolish the historic Carter Bridge in Lagos, following a comprehensive inspection that revealed the bridge’s condition has deteriorated beyond repair. The bridge, a vital artery linking Lagos Island to the mainland since its original construction in 1901, has been described by the Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, as “irredeemable,” prompting plans for a complete replacement.
Senator Umahi, who led the inspection on September 10, 2025, explained that engineers, contractors, and other stakeholders unanimously agreed that the structural integrity of both the main section and the ramps of Carter Bridge were critically compromised. “What we did today was to see whether we could salvage the ramps to reduce the cost and construction time,” Umahi said. “But if the observations we have are correct, it means both the ramp and the main axial section must go.” He confirmed that the government team was also looking into removing remnants of the original bridge, which was demolished decades ago, to ensure safe navigation for boats.
Though the Carter Bridge faces demolition, the Ministry of Works has ruled out constructing a new Third Mainland Bridge, which many had speculated about. Instead, Umahi emphasized that the long-standing Third Mainland Bridge will undergo rehabilitation to extend its lifespan: “The ministry is not buying the idea of a new Third Mainland Bridge. We are committed to rehabilitating the existing one.” This decision signals a shift towards maximizing current infrastructure while addressing urgent safety concerns on Carter Bridge.
Nigeria’s approach to funding the replacement project involves the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, aiming to leverage private sector investment and expertise. Umahi highlighted the government’s intent to empower indigenous construction companies, declaring that local contractors will compete for large-scale projects alongside expatriates, breaking the previous practice of restricting local firms to smaller contracts.
The Carter Bridge has historically been crucial for Lagos’s commerce and transportation, serving thousands of commuters daily and acting as a critical link in the city’s transport network. The announcement of its demolition marks the end of an era and the beginning of a major infrastructure overhaul aimed at enhancing safety and traffic flow in Africa’s largest city.
The government’s next steps involve consulting engineering experts and engaging the public for input on the new bridge’s design and alignment. There is a pressing urgency to ensure smooth transition plans to minimize disruption during demolition and construction phases.
In summary, Nigeria’s federal government has acknowledged the grave structural decline of Lagos’s Carter Bridge, leading to its planned demolition and replacement to safeguard lives and economic activities. This pivotal decision underscores the government’s commitment to infrastructure renewal and economic development, with close attention to public safety and sustainable urban mobility.
