Julius Berger Leads Major Rehabilitation Programme Of Third Mainland Bridge, Others In Lagos

A sweeping rehabilitation of four key bridges in Lagos State is under way, led by Julius Berger Nigeria PLC following a contract awarded by the Federal Ministry of Works in 2023.

The project aims to address years of severe structural deterioration across critical transport links.

Construction began in January 2024 and targets the Third Mainland Bridge, Carter Bridge, Iddo Bridge, and the Iddo Bridge Underpass. The work focuses on damage to underwater components caused by marine corrosion, tidal forces, and sustained heavy traffic.

At Carter Bridge, engineers concentrated on degraded underwater sections and substructure elements to counter the effects of corrosion and tidal movement. Physical works were completed in January, and the project has now entered its close-out phase.

On the Third Mainland Bridge, structural repairs are being carried out on critical components including the deck soffit, piers, and underwater pile caps.

The project is approximately 80% physically complete, with only the monitoring phase outstanding. This phase is expected to last one year and is now in its third month.

Financially, around 60% of the budget has been allocated, with 21% of the total project value executed to date.

A member of the project team said on Friday: “At press time last week, no major construction work is outstanding on this bridge as the focus is entirely on performance validation.

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 Iddo Bridge rehabilitation involves a more intensive reconstruction due to severe deterioration.

Significant portions of the bridge have been demolished and are being rebuilt using reinforced concrete girders, enhanced reinforcement systems, and strengthened structural supports. The project is actively ongoing and stands at 30% physical completion.

At the Iddo Bridge Underpass, the existing structure was completely removed to enable full reconstruction.

The scope includes continuous reinforced concrete pavement (CRCP), improved drainage systems, and the installation of modern street lighting and utility infrastructure. Construction progress has reached 38%.

CRCPs are designed to control cracking rather than eliminate it, with cracks occurring at regular, closely spaced intervals. The reinforcement keeps cracks tight, preventing them from widening.

Overall, these rehabilitation efforts are intended to enhance commuter safety, extend the lifespan of critical infrastructure, and reduce structural risks along some of Lagos State’s busiest transport corridors.

The improvements are also expected to ease traffic flow and strengthen economic activity across the state.