The Federal Government has inaugurated a ₦40 billion closed-circuit television (CCTV) control centre for the Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos, aimed at enhancing security, curbing dangerous driving and preventing suicide attempts on the busy corridor.
Speaking at the inauguration on Sunday, the Minister of Works, David Umahi, said the project followed extensive rehabilitation work carried out on the bridge after the current administration assumed office in 2023.
Umahi explained that the CCTV system, which was first announced in 2025, would enable real-time monitoring of activities on the bridge, allowing security personnel to enforce speed limits and respond swiftly to emergencies.
According to the minister, the Third Mainland Bridge, alongside Carter and Iddo bridges, was in poor condition when the administration came into office, necessitating comprehensive structural assessments and repairs above and below water level.
He disclosed that President Bola Tinubu approved the total rehabilitation of the bridge, including the replacement of expansion joints, adding that the completed work has significantly improved driving conditions and extended the lifespan of the structure.
Umahi further revealed that the project includes the provision of a surveillance boat and two Hilux vans, which will be handed over to the police to support effective monitoring and rapid response on and around the bridge.
Emphasising the importance of compliance with traffic regulations, the minister expressed concern over excessive speeding, noting that the new system would ensure that activities on the bridge are closely monitored.
Also speaking, the Federal Controller of Works in Lagos, Olufemi Dare, described the facility as the first CCTV control centre of its kind on any bridge in Nigeria.
Dare said the system enables continuous, real-time surveillance of both the bridge and the surrounding waterways, strengthening overall safety and security.
He disclosed that the project comprises 240 solar panels, 10 inverters, a 300kVA transformer, a standby generator, multiple monitoring screens and full air conditioning for the control centre.
According to him, the contract also covers the installation of 1,268 solar-powered street lights and a borehole facility to support operations.
Dare added that the project was awarded at a cost of ₦40.17 billion, with about ₦36 billion already paid to the contractor, noting that the inauguration marked the completion of the first phase, while further commissioning would follow upon completion of work on the bridge’s extension.
