The Federal Government has ordered urgent repairs on the damaged Benin-bound section of the Shagamu-Benin bridge, with assurances that a lasting solution will be delivered within weeks.
In a statement on Tuesday, Uchenna Orji, media aide to the Minister of Works, said David Umahi has dispatched a team of engineers to the site located at the border between Edo and Ondo states.
According to the ministry, the affected span of the bridge developed a puncture on one carriageway, prompting immediate intervention. Umahi explained that traffic will be diverted to the other lane during the repairs, which are expected to take about 45 days after concrete work is completed, to allow for curing.
The ministry noted that the Shagamu-Benin bridge, constructed in 1981, has shown signs of deterioration due to age and heavy usage. Umahi said the current effort goes beyond temporary fixes, as the government plans to replace the entire deck slab of both bridges at the location using advanced engineering methods.
“The Federal Ministry of Works shall work with the FRSC to manage traffic during the rehabilitation period. A permanent solution is being adopted to rebuild the deck slab,” the statement added.
While apologising to motorists for the inconvenience, the minister commended the individual who raised awareness about the damage, stressing that over 30 bridges across the country are undergoing rehabilitation this year under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda.
Umahi also highlighted the broader plan to expand Nigeria’s road infrastructure as a driver of economic growth, linking improved transport systems to development in healthcare, education, industry, and tourism.
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