By Faridat Salifu
The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved N493 billion for two major infrastructure projects that will require careful environmental management.
Minister of Works, David Umahi, briefed State House correspondents on Wednesday after the FEC meeting chaired by President Bola Tinubu.
The projects include the construction of a new Carter Bridge in Lagos State and the upgrade of the 152-kilometre Kano–Katsina road, both of which traverse flood-prone and ecologically sensitive areas.
Umahi noted that the Kano–Katsina road, previously divided into two sections, has seen cost adjustments to account for engineering upgrades and environmental safeguards.
Section one covers 74.1 kilometres and has increased in cost from N14 billion in 2013 to N68 billion, reflecting inflation and integration of erosion control measures.
Section two spans 79.5 kilometres and its cost has risen from N29 billion in 2019 to N66.115 billion, including measures to protect water channels and mitigate soil degradation.
The combined cost for both sections totals about N134 billion, with phased budget allocations in 2024 and 2025 to allow implementation of sustainable construction practices.
Findings from underwater assessments of Carter Bridge in 2013 and 2019 revealed severe damage to the substructure caused by illegal sand mining, erosion, and corrosion, demonstrating the environmental risks of inaction.
Contractor Julius Berger recommended complete replacement of the bridge to ensure structural safety while enabling long-term environmental protection.
The estimated cost of the new Carter Bridge is N359 billion, with plans to incorporate flood mitigation, sediment management, and eco-conscious construction techniques.
Umahi said discussions with Deutsche Bank are ongoing to explore funding options that could support environmentally sustainable solutions.
Experts warn that both projects must carefully balance infrastructure development with protection of riverine habitats, floodplains, and surrounding communities.
