It held Lagos together for 125 years. But soon, the iconic Carter Bridge will come down.
The Tinubu-led Administration has approved ₦549 billion to demolish and rebuild the historic bridge, one of three links between Lagos Island and the mainland.
Built in 1901 by British colonial rulers and named after Governor Sir Gilbert Thomas Carter, it was the only connection from Iddo to Idumota back in the day.
After independence, the bridge was dismantled and rebuilt in the 1970s. But time and tides have won. Recent assessments confirm its underwater piles have rotted beyond repair. So, the old lady must fall.
The new bridge will feature a 105-metre navigable waterway for marine traffic. But for Lagosians, watching the oldest bridge disappear is emotional.
From colonial carriages to modern gridlock, Carter Bridge carried our history. Soon, only memories will remain. But hey — progress doesn’t wait. Let’s just hope the new one has the same soul.
