By Milcah Tanimu
The Federal Government has launched an advanced surveillance control room to boost security on the Third Mainland Bridge and surrounding areas. Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, announced this during a visit to Lagos to review infrastructure projects. Staffed by the Army, Navy, Police, and local security, the control room operates rapid-response vehicles and boats, ensuring incidents are addressed within five minutes.
Senator Umahi plans to expand these security measures to major highways. This includes the Lagos-Calabar, Sokoto-Badagry, Trans-Sahara, Abuja-Akwanga-Jos-Bauchi-Gombe, Keffi-Makurdi, Lagos-Ibadan, and Abuja-Kano roads. Additionally, solar lighting will be installed along these routes to improve night visibility and support local economies.
Deputy Chief Whip of the Senate, Senator Peter Nwebonyi, praised the initiative, noting the CCTV control room’s potential to reduce crime and protect infrastructure. He encouraged road users to follow traffic rules to support overall safety.
Senate Minority Whip, Senator Osita Ngwu, highlighted the government’s commitment to infrastructure safety. He praised the recent start of the coastal road project in Ondo, emphasizing the Senate’s support for these initiatives.
Senator Mpigi Barinada from Rivers South East also commended the measures. He called for fair project implementation across all regions, including the South-East and South-South. He stressed that transparency and accountability are essential for effective project oversight.
Chairman of the House Committee on Works, Akin Alabi, confirmed the importance of parliamentary oversight for these initiatives. He supported the minister’s efforts to address infrastructure challenges and praised Umahi’s assertive approach to ensuring contractors meet government standards.
Earlier, the Ministry of Works began construction on the Ondo section of the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway. This step demonstrates Nigeria’s commitment to expanding road infrastructure.
