3 weeks ago
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The Federal Government has proposed N341 billion for emergency repairs of roads and bridges nationwide.
The Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, disclosed this while updating members of the National Assembly Joint Committee on Works on the repair status of the Third Mainland and Carter bridges on Saturday.
The minister and the legislators were on a tour of the Third Mainland and Carter bridges, both located in Lagos State.
Umahi stated that repairing the bridges would avert potential dangers.
He added that N341 billion had been proposed for nationwide road and bridge repairs in 2025, although the amount might not be sufficient considering the extent of the damage.
“We have proposed that N341 billion will be needed. However, we do not know the total cost.
“If we were to rebuild these bridges, even N30 trillion would not be enough; so, a stitch in time saves nine. This is very important.
“Let me report that Julius Berger had been doing an excellent job until they encountered this situation.
“We are collaborating with them and consulting internationally to find a solution.
“It is important for the National Assembly to bear in mind that we have challenges; there are no insurmountable challenges, but they should not be overlooked,” Umahi said.
The minister praised President Bola Tinubu for his commitment to infrastructure development.
Umahi called for urgent intervention on the bridges.
The National Assembly team assured that an urgent public engagement would be convened to discuss the state of Nigerian roads.
They were led by the Deputy Chief Whip of the Senate, Senator Peter Nwebonyi.
Other members included the Minority Whip of the Senate, Senator Osita Ngwu, Senator Mpigi Barinada, and the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Works, Representative Akin Alabi.
The lawmakers expressed regret over the lack of a maintenance plan following road construction or rehabilitation.
They noted that the bridges had remained in poor condition decades after their construction due to the absence of a maintenance plan.
The legislators commended the minister for his efforts in addressing the country’s infrastructure needs.
They emphasised the importance of allocating a “condition survey” budget for all bridges to ensure consistent maintenance and prevent further damage.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the engineers responsible for maintaining and repairing the bridges presented various strategies to ensure safety.
These strategies include installing temporary built-up steel supports, reconstructing capping beams, casting guard wall installations, and steel cage installations.
(NAN)
