Nigeria’s Ageing Bridges: Why Shagamu–Benin Needs More Than a Quick Fix from Umahi
Nigeria’s ageing road infrastructure has once again taken centre stage, as the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, ordered emergency repairs on the Shagamu–Benin Bridge deck following reports of structural damage.
The directive, issued Tuesday, highlights both the fragility of critical transport assets and the urgency of long-overdue maintenance.
A 40-Year-Old Workhorse Under Strain
Constructed in 1981, the five-span double carriageway bridge has been a key artery connecting Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, and Edo States — carrying millions of tonnes of goods and commuters annually.
According to Umahi, the deterioration on one span of the Benin-bound section was caused by age-related wear and tear, worsened by heavy traffic volumes and weather stress.
“Bridges naturally deteriorate with time. This one is over 40 years old, and the deck slab has aged,” the Minister explained, while confirming that engineers had already been deployed to commence immediate remedial works.
Traffic Diversion and Timeline
Repairs will involve complete reconstruction of the damaged slab, requiring a 45-day closure of the affected lane to allow the new concrete to cure. During this period, traffic will be diverted to the adjoining carriageway, with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) mobilised to manage flow.
Umahi apologised to motorists for the inconvenience but insisted safety was non-negotiable. “These interventions are necessary to save lives and prevent catastrophic failure,” he said.
Beyond Firefighting: The Infrastructure Deficit
The Shagamu–Benin Bridge episode underscores a wider structural problem: Nigeria’s infrastructure maintenance gap. Decades of underinvestment in monitoring and preventive upkeep have left many bridges vulnerable.
Industry analysts estimate that more than 70% of Nigeria’s bridges are over 30 years old, raising concerns about long-term safety. The cost of deferred maintenance, experts warn, often outweighs early intervention.
The Renewed Hope Roadmap
Umahi stressed that President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Infrastructure Agenda is not just about ad-hoc repairs but a systemic overhaul.
“In 2025 alone, over 30 bridges nationwide are receiving attention,” he revealed. Projects include deck replacements, expansion joint rehabilitation, and modern monitoring systems that use sensors to detect stress before failure occurs.
For Nigeria’s economy, the stakes are high. The Shagamu–Benin corridor is a lifeline for oil, cement, agricultural produce, and cross-border trade, meaning any prolonged disruption could ripple across supply chains and fuel inflation.
BRANDECONOMY Takeaway
The Shagamu–Benin Bridge is more than a transport link — it is a symbol of Nigeria’s infrastructure time bomb. While emergency works provide short-term relief, the country’s long-term competitiveness depends on sustained investment in modern, resilient transport systems.
With over 40-year-old assets still carrying the backbone of commerce, the big question remains: Will Nigeria finally shift from reactive fixes to a proactive infrastructure culture?
