The federal government is considering backfilling a non-flowing lagoon as a potential replacement for a proposed 3-kilometre bridge along the Lekki deep seaport–Epe–Ijebu-Ode access road.
The minister of works, David Umahi, disclosed this during an inspection of the project on Sunday, November 23.
He reaffirmed that the road project is progressing as planned and is expected to be completed within 21 months.
According to Umahi, consultations are ongoing among the federal government, China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) the project contractor Dangote Group, and the Lagos state government to revisit the design of the affected section.
He said, “The 25km access road linking Lekki Deep Seaport to Epe and Ijebu-Ode will be completed within the 21-month timeline.
“The project remains highly viable and fully on track.”
He report further noted that the team is reviewing the option of replacing a three-kilometre bridge with lagoon backfilling.
Umahi also pointed out other challenges slowing down progress, such as a shrine located within the project’s right of way.
He stated that the shrine would have to be removed and promised to intervene personally if necessary.
He added that issues concerning gas pipelines serving the Dangote refinery and the Lekki free zone, as well as community engagement, are already being factored into the construction plan.
He explained that the Lekki deep seaport–Epe–Ijebu-Ode access road spans 50km in total, consisting of two 25km carriageways, each with three lanes.
It includes major bridges measuring 3.5km and 2.4km.
The road is designed to improve access to the Lekki deep seaport and strengthen regional transportation.
The federal government has so far paid 30% of the project cost, while CHEC is financing the remaining 70% under an EPC+F (Engineering, Procurement, Construction, and Finance) arrangement.
The loan will be repaid through toll collections once the road becomes operational.
The CHEC managing director, Jason Wang, assured that the company would deliver a high quality project without excuses.
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