The Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to delivering modern and durable infrastructure under the Renewed Hope Agenda, during the temporary opening of the Bodo–Bonny Road and Bridges Across the Opobo Channel.
The historic 37.9-kilometre road connects the mainland to Bonny Island, home to Nigeria’s Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) Plant and other major energy investments. It traverses challenging terrain, including forests, swamps, and creek networks, and marks a major milestone for the riverine Bonny and Ogoni Kingdoms, providing relief to communities that previously relied on risky river crossings or costly helicopter trips.
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The project, initiated on 28 October 2017 and approximately 90.98% complete, was first awarded in December 2014.
The temporary opening was attended by a host of dignitaries, including Rivers State Governor Sir Similaye Fubara, members of the National Assembly, traditional rulers, and community elders.
Governor Fubara, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Benibo Anabrabawho, described the day as historic, noting that families and commuters can now travel safely by road, particularly during festive seasons.
He praised President Tinubu and Engr. Umahi for rescuing the project from years of uncertainty and pledged the State Government’s continued partnership with the Federal Government.
Senator Barinada Mpigi, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, commended the President for his unwavering commitment to the Ogoni people, describing the project as a clear demonstration of care and development focus.
Engr. Umahi outlined operational guidelines for the temporary opening: the road will be open daily from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm, with motorcycles (“Okadas”), tricycles (“Keke”), and heavy-duty trucks restricted until obstacles are removed and necessary infrastructure, including trailer parks, is completed.
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He emphasized that these measures aim to safeguard the road and ensure its longevity.
The Minister revealed enhancements funded through project savings, including **solar-powered streetlights with CCTV cameras and tree planting along the route—features not included in the original plan.
He also confirmed that the road will eventually be dualized via a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) with a toll system to guarantee proper maintenance.
Highlighting other infrastructure projects, Engr. Umahi provided updates on the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, noting that key sections in Lagos are approximately 85% complete, while other stretches across Ogun, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom are progressing steadily. The East–West Road is under active construction, with completion expected next year.
Engr. Umahi expressed gratitude to the National Assembly and the Peace Committee for supporting the project through earlier disputes and commended President Tinubu for ensuring the contractor’s continuity despite cost implications.
The President is expected to visit Bodo and Bonny by March 2026, which is anticipated to accelerate local development.
Coordinating Director, Highways (Bridges and Design), Engr. Musa Sa’idu, described the Bodo–Bonny Road as a bridge-dominated engineering landmark with over 3 kilometres of bridges, including the 502-metre Alpha Creek Bridge.
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Engineers’ Representative, Engr. Udom Joseph, added that the road features flexible pavements on sand-filled embankments, rigid pavements in Bonny town, nine mini-bridges, and three major bridges, with technical adjustments and financial revisions implemented to address environmental challenges.
In a goodwill statement, a royal representative on behalf of the King of Gokana Kingdom praised the Federal and State Governments for delivering the project, describing it as monumental and a major benefit to Rivers State and Nigeria at large.