The Federal Government has successfully renegotiated the cost of rehabilitating the Iddo Bridge in Lagos, bringing the project cost down from the initial estimate of N27 billion to N17 billion.
Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, disclosed this development on Friday during an inspection tour of the bridge site.
“Julius Berger initially proposed about N27 billion for the rehabilitation,” Umahi said. “Following extensive negotiations, the cost was brought down to N17 billion.”
He praised Julius Berger Nigeria Plc. for its collaborative approach under new management, describing the company as operating with renewed transparency and professionalism.
The minister emphasised the government’s ongoing focus on fiscal responsibility and reaffirmed that all contractors must conform to the standards and directives established by the Ministry of Works.
Umahi further explained that the scope of the rehabilitation had expanded from a limited repair of the fire-damaged portion to a more comprehensive restoration.
Expressing concern over the bridge’s deteriorated state, he attributed the structural damage to years of neglect, misuse, and illegal activities under the bridge. According to him, three spans were severely compromised due to a fire believed to have originated from makeshift settlements beneath the structure, where illegal occupants stored chemicals and ignited flames that damaged the bridge.
He added that the bridge’s current clearance is approximately 4.5 metres but will be raised to at least 5.6 metres to prevent future damage from heavy-duty vehicles and unauthorised structures.
Highlighting the government’s intent to safeguard public infrastructure, the minister declared that no persons would be permitted to reside under the Iddo Bridge again.
“As long as I am the Minister of Works, no one will be allowed to live beneath the Iddo Bridge,” Umahi asserted. “The safety and wellbeing of Nigerians remain a top priority.”
He also revealed that the ministry is determined to restore the structural integrity of the bridge and prevent a recurrence of such incidents.
