The Federal Ministry of Works has launched emergency repair efforts on the compromised deck of the Benin-bound carriageway of the Shagamu-Benin Expressway, following a structural defect that raised alarm among road users.
In an official statement issued on Tuesday by Uchenna Orji, Special Adviser (Media) to the Minister of Works, the ministry confirmed the deployment of a team of engineers to the affected site, located at the boundary between Edo and Ondo States.
According to the statement, the Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, directed the immediate mobilization of technical experts after reports emerged of a visible puncture in the bridge deck on the Benin-bound lane one of five spans comprising the dual-carriage bridge.
“In line with the proactive infrastructure policy of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope administration, swift intervention has commenced on the damaged section,” the ministry noted. “The repair will require a maximum period of 45 days after concrete works, to allow proper curing before full vehicular movement resumes.”
This incident marks the second time a similar defect has been observed on the same bridge span, with the previous issue having been addressed promptly, the ministry added.
Bridge Age and Structural Weakness
Officials attributed the latest damage to the natural aging of the infrastructure. Built in 1981, the bridge has endured decades of environmental exposure and heavy traffic loads without full-scale deck replacement.
“Structural wear and tear over time is inevitable, especially for bridges of this age,” the ministry explained. “Materials deteriorate due to factors such as corrosion, cracks, and consistent load pressure. The weakening of the deck is a result of long-term degradation that now demands comprehensive attention.”
Permanent Fix in Progress
To ensure a sustainable solution, the ministry is moving forward with plans for a complete overhaul of the deck slabs on both sets of bridges located in Ondo and Edo States.
“This is not just a patchwork fix. We’re removing the entire deck structure and rebuilding it using innovative engineering technologies,” Minister Umahi assured. He emphasized that the reconstruction effort is part of a broader national initiative targeting over 30 bridges for rehabilitation across the country in 2025 alone.
During the reconstruction period, the unaffected carriageway will be used to manage traffic flow, with support from the Federal Road Safety Corps to minimize gridlock and ensure commuter safety.
Public Alert Praised, Criticism Addressed
The ministry also acknowledged and thanked the individual who raised public awareness about the bridge’s deteriorating condition, while addressing concerns over skepticism toward the government’s road infrastructure initiatives.
“We appreciate the content creator who highlighted the issue. While we note his critical stance on the administration’s efforts, we urge all citizens to recognize the progress being made under the Renewed Hope agenda,” the statement read.
Renewed Hope Agenda Driving Nationwide Infrastructure Push
Minister Umahi reaffirmed the Tinubu administration’s commitment to revamping Nigeria’s transport infrastructure, positioning road development as a core strategy for economic advancement.
“The president’s legacy projects are designed to stimulate growth across multiple sectors from healthcare and education to tourism, trade, and industry,” Umahi stated. “Our mission is to reverse years of infrastructure decay and build a more connected, efficient, and prosperous Nigeria.”
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