The Federal Government has suspended its planned closure of the Eko Bridge in Lagos after a fresh structural assessment showed the bridge remains safe for use for now.
The Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, announced the decision during an inspection visit to the bridge on Tuesday.
According to the minister, the government initially planned to shut down the bridge due to concerns over a crack detected on the structure. However, President Bola Tinubu directed the ministry to review the decision to avoid causing hardship for Lagos residents and commuters.
Umahi explained that engineers carried out another technical evaluation on Monday and concluded that the crack had not worsened.
He stated that the bridge would remain open while authorities continue to monitor the condition of the damaged section closely.
The minister noted that although the crack is currently stable and not expanding, the government would not compromise public safety and would continue regular inspections.
He also revealed that remedial work would begin soon on the affected section of the bridge. According to him, the repairs will involve additional piling and reinforcement work designed to bypass the cracked portion.
Umahi said the repair project is expected to last about four months and could eventually allow the full reopening of the bridge section. After that, engineers will move ahead with a larger reconstruction plan that includes removing and replacing the damaged slab.
The minister praised President Tinubu for prioritising the welfare of Nigerians and seeking solutions that would reduce inconvenience for road users in Lagos.
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