The Federal Government has installed closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras on the Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos as part of a comprehensive initiative to improve security and deter suicidal actions, the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, has confirmed.
Speaking on Friday during an appearance on *Politics Today*, a Channels Television programme, Umahi revealed that the surveillance system will serve multiple purposes — from monitoring suspicious activity to preventing illegal sand excavation and discouraging suicide attempts.
“We have placed CCTV cameras beneath the deck of the Third Mainland Bridge to detect any excavation within a 10-kilometre radius,”
Umahi said.
“A security outpost has also been set up by the waterside, housing the police, navy, army, and local security operatives, who will be monitoring the feeds in real-time.”
The minister emphasized that the cameras will help prevent further unauthorized activities under the bridge structure and enable authorities to quickly identify and assist individuals exhibiting signs of distress or attempting suicide.
On infrastructure updates in the state, Umahi addressed concerns surrounding the recent closure of the Independence Bridge. He explained that the shutdown became necessary due to a structural defect in the approach slab, which collapsed after the underlying sand filling was washed away — an issue traced to a design flaw.
“The cantilever method used in the initial design was not appropriate for that particular location,” he stated, noting that corrective measures have since been implemented to restore the bridge.
In a separate development, Umahi provided an update on the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, describing the pace of construction as impressive. He announced that President Bola Tinubu is expected to commission a completed 30-kilometre stretch of the project on May 25, 2025.
“Currently, about 15 kilometres of dual carriageway have been completed at the beginning of section one, and an additional 5 kilometres at the Eleko end,” he said. “By May 25, we aim to deliver 30 kilometres of uninterrupted road for commissioning.”
The minister reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to critical infrastructure development, highlighting the importance of improved transportation and safety measures in supporting economic growth and public welfare.
