By Joy Baba-Yesufu
The Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, has said the government needs to import construction equipment worth €1.2m to effectively perform rehabilitation works on the Eko Bridge in Lagos State.
The Minister made the announcement during a working visit to Third Mainland, Carter, Falomo, Iddo, Eko, Marina and Iganmu Bridges in Lagos State, alongside some directors and contractors.
In a statement by the Deputy Director, Press and Public Relations, Clement Ezeorah, on Sunday, the minister said the deck on Eko Bridge would be opened for proper repair, hence the need to import the equipment.
Umahi said, “Due to the technicality of the job on Eko Bridge where the bridge deck would be open, equipment worth €1.2m would be imported into the country that would be used in maintaining the aspect of the bridge.”
According to the minister, lack of maintenance culture from the national level was the root cause of the deflection on the bridge, while also pointing out problems on the Third Mainland Bridge which was built in two sections 60 years ago.
He said, “Eko Bridge suffers two problems – the lack of maintenance, and the eating up of the bearings. There are lots of air gaps, but the last administration did very well and wonderful work.
“Work is ongoing; it will be completed in 2024 because we are pushing for an increase in the number of workers and equipment on the site.
“Without Eko Bridge, we will not have any truck coming into Lagos Island.’’
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