The allocation, contained in the detailed breakdown of the newly approved budget by the Ministry of Works, has raised eyebrows among policy analysts, civil society groups, and the general public, many of whom question the rationale behind the exponential budget hike for a single infrastructure project.
The Third Mainland Bridge, a critical artery connecting Lagos Island to the mainland and one of the busiest roads in Nigeria, has undergone several rounds of repair in the last five years. The latest ₦21 billion expenditure was completed in late 2024, reportedly addressing structural integrity and expansion joint issues.
However, Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, defended the new budget line at a press briefing in Abuja on Wednesday, saying the fresh ₦3.87 trillion allocation includes “comprehensive rehabilitation, long-term structural reinforcement, and advanced traffic management technology.”
“This is not just repair work — this is a transformation of one of Africa’s most vital infrastructure assets. We are moving beyond patchwork to full modernization,” Umahi said.
Still, critics are demanding transparency. “There is no public record justifying such an astronomical leap in cost. Even a complete bridge reconstruction may not require this much,” said Aisha Bello, Director of the Public Accountability Network.
Analysts warn that without a detailed audit and cost breakdown, the allocation may fuel further concerns over mismanagement or inflated contracts in Nigeria’s public infrastructure sector.
With over 70% of the supplementary budget now tied to this single line item, calls are growing louder for the National Assembly to initiate a review and public hearing into the matter.
Leave a Reply