BY CHIKA OKEKE, Abuja
The Federal Government has stated its readiness to commence nationwide crackdown on vehicles that failed to comply with the estimated vehicle height and load regulations.
Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi disclosed this at the ministry’s headquarters on Thursday in Abuja, in response to recent damages to the structural integrity of key bridges and flyovers nationwide.
He noted that the crackdown, to be carried out in collaboration with enforcement agencies, would enforce strict compliance for weight load regulations, clearance heights, and transport configurations across Federal roads and bridges.
While referening a recent structural incident at the Keffi Flyover, which prompted an immediate technical evaluation, he reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s critical infrastructure.
Investigation revealed that the damage was caused by a container-laden trailer that exceeded the permitted clearance height, highlighting a national disregard for vehicle height and load regulations.
The minister added: "When the height or weight of what you are transporting exceeds the permitted clearance, it directly compromises the structural integrity of bridges and flyovers.
"These infrastructures were never designed to accommodate such abuse. A single impact from an overloaded or improperly configured vehicle can lead to multi-billion-naira damage and threaten lives, as well as properties."
Umahi frowned that no fewer than seven bridges along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway have suffered structural compromises due to similar violations.
To this end, he warned that the minimum standard headroom for flyovers and interchanges ranges between 5.5 and 6.5 meters, adding that violating the engineering requirement not only breaches Federal regulations but shortens the lifespan of essential transport infrastructure.
Umahi referenced the Eko Bridge, which was damaged by fire under the previous administration and is currently undergoing rehabilitation, saying that it is now 80 percent complete, all thanks to expedited funding approved by President Bola Tinubu.
On 3rd Mainland and Carter Bridges in Lagos, the minister acknowledged the discomfort faced by commuters due to ongoing maintenance exercises as witnessed during a recent inspection and urged them to be patient, while complying with the approved standards.
He reaffirmed that integrity tests are essential to ensuring the long-term safety of the structures and the millions of Nigerians who use them daily.
"We appreciate the patience of Nigerians during this time. All findings from our assessments are being addressed with precision, and every repair and reinforcement is being executed according to international engineering standards. No shortcuts will be taken," he assured.
The Permanent Secretary, Engr. Olufunsho Adebiyi echoed the minister’s sentiments, emphasising that bridge protection is a shared responsibility, not solely the government’s.
“The bridges across Nigeria are a critical component of the nation’s economic and transport network. These structures are designed and constructed with load and height specifications. When motorists, especially operators of heavy-duty vehicles ignore these, they place undue stress on our infrastructure, leading to premature and costly damage," he stated.
Adebiyi urged transport unions, construction firms, logistics companies, and motorists to comply with Federal regulations to preserve public assets and ensure road safety.
"The government alone cannot monitor every kilometre of road or every single bridge. This must be a collective effort. We are open to collaboration, sensitisation, and enforcement because Nigerians must understand that protecting our roads is in our shared interest," he said.
To protect critical infrastructure, the ministry enjoined all stakeholders—transport unions, construction companies, logistics operators, and road users—to join hands with the government in ensuring that the nation’s investments are not rendered futile by negligence and lawlessness.
This was contained in a statement by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Mohammed A. Ahmed on in Abuja.
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