FG Begins Construction of 2nd Niger Bridge Bypasses, Commits to East-West Road Completion by 2026
The President Bola Tinubu-led administration has announced the release of 30% mobilisation funds for the construction of two bypasses on the 2nd Niger Bridge, linking the Asaba-Benin and Enugu-Onitsha dual carriageways. This development came as the Federal Government assured that the reconstruction of the flood-damaged East-West Road in Rivers State would be completed between December 2025 and March 2026.
The Minister of Works, David Umahi, disclosed this during his inspection of ongoing federal road projects in Rivers State. He expressed optimism about the timely completion of the projects, commending President Tinubu for his commitment to infrastructure development.
Key Developments in Infrastructure Projects
Umahi revealed that the mobilisation funds for the 2nd Niger Bridge bypasses had been released to contractors CCECC and CJC, marking a significant step toward the project’s completion.
“Good news also for Niger Delta and Anambra people, the second Niger bridge, finally, the section 2a and 2b are being handled by CCECC and CJC. The President has released 30 percent mobilisation to them. So I commend the President. At last, this project will be completed, and we will engage the already completed second Niger bridge. That will be a win-win for the entire country,” Umahi said.
The minister also highlighted progress on other major road projects, including the Abuja-Kano Road, where 30% mobilisation funds had been released for sections 1 and 3.
Inspection of Ongoing Projects
During his two-day inspection tour, Umahi visited several critical road projects in Rivers State and beyond, including:
- Eleme-Onne Road Construction: Handled by RCC.
- Bodo-Bonny Road Project: Executed by Julius Berger.
- Rivers-Bayelsa Section of East-West Road Reconstruction: Managed by SETRACO.
- Rehabilitation of Enugu-Port Harcourt Dual Carriageway (Aba-Port Harcourt Road): Undertaken by CCECC.
Umahi expressed satisfaction with the quality of work done so far and reiterated the Tinubu administration’s commitment to the development of the Niger Delta region.
Focus on East-West Road Reconstruction
The East-West Road, which has suffered significant damage from flooding over the years, remains a priority for the federal government. Umahi assured Nigerians that the reconstruction would be completed by March 2026, emphasizing the use of concrete technology to ensure the road’s durability.
“I am fulfilling one of the directives of Mr. President to raise local contractors because we have a lot of contracts, and the expatriate contractors cannot fit totally to bridge this gap. So, local contractors are being raised, and this is one of them,” Umahi said.
He praised the contractors for their efforts in stabilizing the road and preventing further damage. “I’m very happy with what they have done and are doing at the end of the road to protect it from moving. The moment you restrain the road from moving at either end, the stability of the road is assured. I keep saying that the solution to the problem of instant failures of the East-West Road from Lokoja to here and down to Cross River is concrete road. I’m happy that the president is addressing them,” he added.
Implications for National Development
The construction of the 2nd Niger Bridge bypasses and the reconstruction of the East-West Road are expected to significantly improve transportation and economic activities in the South-East and South-South regions. The projects will enhance connectivity, reduce travel time, and boost trade and commerce, contributing to the overall development of the regions.
Conclusion
The Tinubu administration’s commitment to infrastructure development is evident in the timely release of funds and the prioritization of critical road projects. With the 2nd Niger Bridge bypasses and the East-West Road reconstruction on track, Nigerians can look forward to improved road networks and enhanced economic opportunities in the coming years.
