Minister Umahi blames rising structural damage on non-compliant trailers, orders nationwide enforcement crackdown.
The Federal Government has raised alarm over the increasing threat to Nigeria’s bridge infrastructure, blaming widespread disregard for safety standards and overloading by heavy-duty vehicles for recent structural damages nationwide.
Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, CON, made this known at a press briefing in Abuja on Wednesday, warning that the reckless operations of container-laden trailers and non-compliant transporters are compromising the safety and lifespan of the country’s critical transport infrastructure.
Umahi cited a recent incident at the Keffi Flyover, where an overloaded trailer struck the structure due to its excessive height. A subsequent technical inspection confirmed that the damage was caused by vehicles exceeding the permitted clearance levels.
“These infrastructures were never designed to withstand such abuse. A single impact from an overloaded vehicle can lead to multi-billion-naira damage and endanger lives,” the Minister warned.
He explained that the minimum standard headroom for flyovers and interchanges is between 5.5 and 6.5 meters. Any violation of this standard, he stressed, constitutes a breach of federal regulations and drastically shortens the durability of the structures.
Umahi disclosed that no fewer than seven bridges along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway have already suffered structural damage due to similar violations. He added that the Eko Bridge, damaged by fire under the previous administration, is now 80% rehabilitated, following emergency funding by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.
On the state of the 3rd Mainland and Carter Bridges in Lagos, Umahi acknowledged ongoing repairs have caused discomfort but emphasized that routine inspections and integrity tests are necessary for public safety.
“We appreciate the patience of Nigerians during this time. All repair works are being carried out according to international engineering standards. No shortcuts will be taken,” he stated.
To curb further deterioration, the Ministry is launching a nationwide enforcement campaign, in partnership with law enforcement agencies, to monitor and penalize non-compliant vehicles. This includes strict regulation of transport height, weight loads, and vehicle configurations on all federal roads and bridges.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Engr. Olufunsho Adebiyi, also spoke during the briefing, reiterating that bridge protection is not solely the government’s responsibility.
“These structures are designed with very specific load and clearance parameters. When operators violate these, they expose the infrastructure to premature failure,” Adebiyi said.
He appealed to transport unions, logistics companies, construction firms, and motorists to uphold safety standards, warning that the government cannot monitor every bridge or road alone.
“This must be a shared responsibility. We are open to partnerships on public sensitisation and strict enforcement,” he said.
The Ministry reiterated its commitment to proactive maintenance, transparent rehabilitation processes, and stakeholder engagement as core strategies for sustaining Nigeria’s road and bridge network.
