The Federal Government has inaugurated a ₦40 billion Close Circuit Television (CCTV) surveillance centre on Lagos’ Third Mainland Bridge to strengthen security and improve traffic monitoring.
The facility was commissioned during an inspection of federal roads and bridges in Lagos State by the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi.
The centre is designed to support law enforcement agencies in regulating traffic and enhancing safety on the bridge, one of Nigeria’s busiest transport routes.
Speaking at the event, Minister Umahi explained the operational plans for the CCTV centre, saying, “The police will set the speed limits and ensure they are properly announced.
We are handing over two vehicles and a surveillance boat to them as part of the project.”
Umahi described a “lay-by” extension on the bridge, where police officers will monitor traffic and respond swiftly to infractions without obstructing traffic flow.
“If any vehicle breaks the law or overspeeds, officers will pull them over at the lay-by to avoid congestion and take necessary action,” he said.
The minister emphasized that the project aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s directive to safeguard federal roads nationwide.
“This is just a sample of what we intend to implement on all federal highways. We are building roads that will last between 50 and 100 years,” Umahi added.
Umahi also outlined ongoing works on bridge extensions and road infrastructure improvements across Lagos, including the Tomeland and Qatar Bridges.
He highlighted challenges such as aging structures, poor maintenance culture, and engineering complexities, which the government is addressing with rehabilitation and replacement projects.
On the state of the Qatar Bridge, Umahi warned of severe structural deterioration under the water, saying, “We are doing all remedial works possible and praying the bridge holds until its replacement, expected within three years.”
He assured that safety remains paramount, with restrictions on heavy trucks and close monitoring of all bridges in Lagos and nationwide.
The government has set up expert committees to assess bridges and allocate funds for urgent repairs.
The minister also announced changes in road construction policies, including the mandatory use of pavers and concrete for road shoulders to enhance durability and reduce frequent repairs.
Concluding, Umahi called for public support and patience, stressing the economic benefits of road projects and the government’s commitment to improving Nigeria’s transport infrastructure.
