The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Works, has mandated the urgent rehabilitation of the damaged Keffi flyover in Nasarawa State, setting a strict 30‑day deadline for completion. This directive comes after an inspection led by the Works Minister, Engr. David Umahi, revealed structural damage following a collision with an overloaded truck.
Incident Overview
On July 17, 2025, a container-laden tractor-trailer — carrying an excavator — exceeded the permitted clearance height and struck the Keffi flyover. The impact completely dislodged one of its beams and damaged two others, compromising the flyover’s integrity.
Government Inspection and Response
Following the incident, Minister Umahi personally inspected the damage on July 20, alongside key officials including the Permanent Secretary, Engr. Olufunso O. Adebiyi, and engineers from the Federal Controller’s office. Observing visible cracks and structural faults, he ordered the immediate closure of the affected carriageway to prevent further damage and ensure public safety.
30-Day Rehabilitation Mandate
Umahi issued a directive for the Ministry’s engineering teams to execute all necessary repairs within 30 days, aiming to restore full traffic flow. He emphasized that “no shortcuts will be taken,” insisting on adherence to international engineering standards throughout the repair process.
Root Cause and National Safety Advisory
The Ministry’s investigation identified the collision as a consequence of repeated violations of vehicle height and load regulations. Minister Umahi noted that the flyover was designed for vehicle clearance between 5.5 and 6.5 meters, a standard regularly breached by oversized transport vehicles. He also flagged six other bridges, including portions of the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, which have suffered structural stress due to similar infractions.
Call for Enforcement and Public Cooperation
In addition to repair orders, the Ministry announced a nationwide enforcement campaign targeting overloading and non-compliant transport configurations. It called on transport unions, logistics firms, construction companies, and motorists to adhere strictly to federal standards and engage in a shared responsibility for infrastructure protection.
Broader Infrastructure Impact
This incident underscores wider vulnerabilities in Nigeria’s transport infrastructure. Similar stress and damage have been recorded on major installations such as the 3rd Mainland and Carter bridges in Lagos, both under rehabilitation. Umahi reassured commuters that integrity assessments would guide safe completion of these projects while urging patience and caution during maintenance periods.
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