The Federal Government has established a fresh deadline of July 15 for the comprehensive repairs and reopening of both Eko and Apongbon bridges to vehicular traffic. Mrs Olukorede Kesha, the Federal Controller of Works in Lagos State, revealed this information during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) following a crucial meeting with the project contractors.
After discussions with Buildwell Plants and Equipment Industries Ltd, the contracted firm responsible for the bridge projects, Kesha emphasized the importance of completing certain critical aspects of the repairs to ensure the long-term durability of the infrastructure. She appealed for the patience and understanding of road users, acknowledging the inconveniences they have been enduring.
Kesha recognized the challenges faced by motorists and assured them that the Federal Government is making every effort to ensure the contractor meets the target completion date of July 15.
The devastating fires caused by human activities in 2022 severely damaged both Eko and Apongbon bridges. Apongbon Bridge was first affected in March 2022, and although efforts were initially aimed at completing the repairs by December, progress was impeded by another fire incident in the Ijora Olopa section of Eko Bridge on November 4.
As a result, the delivery date for Apongbon Bridge was extended to May 2023, as some materials necessary for its repairs were redirected to address the emergency repair needs of the Ijora Olopa section. Eko Bridge, spanning 4.1km, serves as a vital connection between Lagos Island and the Mainland, with Apongbon being the point of direct linkage on the Island side.
While phased rehabilitation efforts have been ongoing on Eko Bridge, a comprehensive maintenance contract was awarded in February 2022 to ensure its long-term stability. The Federal Government is fully committed to expediting the necessary repairs and reopening both bridges promptly to restore smooth traffic flow and alleviate the challenges faced by commuters.
