Julius Berger begins massive fix on Lagos’ deteriorating bridges

Julius Berger Nigeria PLC has intensified rehabilitation work on some of Lagos’ most critical bridges, tackling years of structural deterioration across key transport corridors.

The company is leading the large-scale intervention under a contract awarded by the Federal Ministry of Works in 2023, with construction beginning in January 2024. The programme covers four strategic routes: the Third Mainland Bridge, Carter Bridge, Iddo Bridge, and the Iddo Bridge Underpass.

The rehabilitation targets long-standing structural damage, particularly in underwater components weakened by marine corrosion, tidal forces, and years of heavy traffic.

At Carter Bridge, engineers focused on repairing degraded underwater and substructure elements to counter corrosion and tidal impact. Physical works were completed in January, with the project now in its close-out phase.

On the Third Mainland Bridge, one of the busiest routes in the country, structural repairs have been carried out on critical sections, including the deck soffit, piers, and underwater pile caps. The project has reached about 80 per cent physical completion, with only the monitoring phase left.

Providing insight into this phase, a member of the project team said, “At press time last week, no major construction work is outstanding on this bridge as the focus is entirely on performance validation.”

The official added, “Essentially, the monitoring phase acts as a quality assurance and risk management step, ensuring that the extensive rehabilitation work translates into a safe, stable, and durable bridge for years to come.”

The monitoring phase, expected to last one year, is already in its third month. Financially, about 60 per cent of the project budget has been allocated, while 21 per cent of the total contract value has been executed so far.

Work on Iddo Bridge is more extensive due to severe structural damage. Large sections have been demolished and are being rebuilt using reinforced concrete girders, upgraded reinforcement systems, and stronger support structures. The bridge is currently at 30 per cent completion.

At the Iddo Bridge Underpass, the existing structure has been fully removed to allow for complete reconstruction. The project includes the installation of continuous reinforced concrete pavement (CRCP), improved drainage systems, modern street lighting, and upgraded utility infrastructure. Construction progress stands at 38 per cent.

Engineers explained that CRCP technology is designed to control cracking rather than eliminate it, with reinforcement ensuring cracks remain tight and do not expand.

Overall, the multi-bridge rehabilitation programme is expected to improve commuter safety, extend the lifespan of critical infrastructure, and reduce structural risks along some of Lagos’ busiest routes. The upgrades are also projected to ease traffic congestion and support economic activity across the state.