The Federal Government has refuted claims that the recently rehabilitated Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos will be tolled, describing such reports as “unfounded.”

Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, clarified the position on Sunday during the inauguration of a ₦40 billion Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) Camera Control Centre on the bridge.

Umahi explained that tolling the bridge is neither feasible nor advisable due to structural and traffic considerations.

“We will not engage in any form of tolling on this bridge because it will involve construction activities that could introduce additional static load on the structure,” he said.

He also noted that the bridge’s location in a densely populated urban area makes tolling impractical, as it could lead to traffic congestion and operational challenges.

“The bridge is within the city, and tolling it will introduce unnecessary bottlenecks. That is why we are not tolling the Third Mainland Bridge,” Umahi added.

On security, the minister said the Nigeria Police Force has been tasked with ensuring the safety of commuters, promising a response time of about five minutes for emergencies. Essential facilities, including tow vans and ambulances, will be stationed along the 11-kilometre bridge to handle incidents promptly.

Highlighting government priorities, Umahi stressed that the focus remains on smooth and safe movement for road users, in line with President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to improving Nigerians’ quality of life.

“We want life to be very smooth and sweet for Nigerians; that is what President Bola Tinubu stands for,” the minister said.