The Federal Government has launched a state-of-the-art surveillance room to monitor the Third Mainland Bridge and surrounding areas. The Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, announced the development on Thursday in Lagos while leading a National Assembly team on an inspection tour of infrastructure projects in the southwest, including the Third Mainland Bridge.
Umahi explained that the surveillance room would be manned by security personnel from the Army, Navy, Police, and local security forces. Additionally, a dedicated boat and vehicles have been assigned to the facility to ensure a rapid response time of five minutes to any incidents.
The minister also disclosed plans to expand similar security setups across major highways, such as the Lagos-Calabar, Sokoto-Badagry, Trans-Sahara, Abuja-Akwanga-Jos-Bauchi-Gombe, Keffi-Makurdi, Lagos-Ibadan, and Abuja-Kano roads. Plans are also underway to install solar lighting on major roads to enhance nighttime visibility and boost economic activity.
Umahi noted that the first section of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway is nearing completion and will soon be concessioned for management and maintenance.
Senator Peter Nwebonyi, Deputy Chief Whip of the Senate, praised the CCTV surveillance initiative for enhancing security on the Third Mainland Bridge. He emphasized that the system would help deter crime and prevent vandalism of key infrastructure, such as handrails and street lights. Nwebonyi also urged road users to follow traffic laws for improved safety.
Senate Minority Whip Senator Osita Ngwu commended the government’s infrastructure projects, highlighting the recent launch of the coastal road section in Ondo. He praised Umahi’s dedication and President Bola Tinubu’s support, underscoring the Senate’s legislative backing for these initiatives.
Senator Mpigi Barinada, representing Rivers South East, called for fairness in infrastructure development, emphasizing the importance of transparency and accountability. He advocated for replicating these innovations in the South-East and South-South regions for balanced development.
Akin Alabi, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Works, commended the Minister’s proactive approach to infrastructure. He assured that the Committee would continue to oversee government spending, particularly regarding the 2024 budget, and ensure transparency in project execution.
Earlier, the Ministry of Works flagged off the commencement of work on the Ondo section of the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway.
(NAN)
