David Umahi, Nigeria’s Minister of Works, has revealed that the recent installation of closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras on the iconic Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos is part of a broader initiative to prevent suicide attempts and combat illegal sand excavation beneath the bridge.
Speaking on Friday during an appearance on ‘Politics Today’, a popular programme on Channels Television, Umahi outlined the federal government’s strategy to enhance the security of the bridge.
He explained that the surveillance cameras, which were officially unveiled in February, are now actively monitored by security personnel.
These personnel will not only be keeping an eye on potential suicide attempts but also enforcing speed limits to ensure the safety of commuters.
The former governor of Ebonyi State also voiced concerns over the illegal sand excavation activities taking place under the bridge.
He warned that such practices pose significant risks to the structural integrity of the bridge and emphasized the need for more stringent monitoring and enforcement.
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“We have put CCTVs down under the deck so that anybody that is excavating sand within the 10-kilometre radius will be spotted,” Umahi said.
“We have built, beside the bank of the sea on Third Mainland Bridge, an examination house where we have the navy, police, army and local security.
“They will all be there watching the CCTV so that anybody who is trying to take his life on the third mainland bridge, they will spot the person.
“With this CCTV, there will be no more excavation of sand under the deck around the pies.”
The minister also expressed satisfaction with the level of work on the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway.
He added that 30 kilometres of the road would be ready for President Bola Tinubu to inaugurate on May 25.
 cameras on the iconic Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos is part of a broader initiative to prevent suicide attempts and combat illegal sand excavation beneath the bridge.){kind=link}