Tinubu Officially Flags Off Second Niger Bridge Access Road Project

Tinubu Officially Flags Off Second Niger Bridge Access Road Project

President Bola Tinubu has officially inaugurated the construction of the access road to the Second Niger Bridge, which connects Delta and Anambra states. The 17.55-kilometre road project, awarded to CCECC Nigeria Limited, will traverse several communities in Delta State, including Issele-Azagba, Okpanam, Ibusa, Asaba, Okwe, and Oko-Amakun, before linking to the Second Niger Bridge in Anambra State………READ MORE

The groundbreaking ceremony was held on Monday in Oko, Oshimili South Local Government Area, with Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori representing the president at the event.

A Milestone in Infrastructure Development

Speaking on behalf of President Tinubu, Governor Oborevwori described the project as a key component of the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at enhancing road infrastructure, stimulating economic growth, and improving regional connectivity.

“Today marks another significant milestone in our Renewed Hope Agenda. The construction of the access road to the Second Niger Bridge reaffirms our commitment to delivering critical infrastructure,” Tinubu stated.

The president recalled that the commissioning of the Second Niger Bridge in December 2022 was a major breakthrough for road transportation between the South-East and other parts of Nigeria. However, he acknowledged that the lack of proper access roads had posed challenges for commuters—an issue the new project aims to address.

“This access road is a direct response to the difficulties faced by road users. It is expected to improve connectivity, enhance road safety, and boost trade and economic activities, for which the South-East is renowned,” he added.

Timely Execution and Economic Benefits

Tinubu assured the public that the project would be executed with urgency, stating that significant progress would be made by the end of the year.

“This project underscores our commitment to building resilient communities, improving infrastructure, and ensuring an efficient road network. It will create employment opportunities, boost tourism, facilitate the movement of goods and services, and ultimately improve the quality of life,” the president affirmed.

He also appealed to motorists and residents for patience and cooperation during the construction phase, acknowledging that some inconveniences were inevitable.

“There will be temporary disruptions to movement, but I trust the people will support this development effort. As progressives, we must embrace growth initiatives across the nation,” Tinubu stated.

Commitment to Quality and Timely Completion

The president reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring that the project is completed on schedule and to international standards.

“I am confident in the contractor’s ability to deliver the project on time and to the highest quality standards,” he said.

Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, highlighted compensation payments as a major challenge in infrastructure projects across Nigeria.

“A policy was recently approved by the Federal Executive Council, requiring state governments to assist with compensation payments. This will be crucial in determining the project’s timeline,” he explained.

Umahi stated that while the government had directed CCECC Nigeria Limited to commence work in areas without compensation disputes, the Federal Ministry of Works would collaborate with the state government to resolve outstanding issues.

“Although enumeration is ongoing, the report must be submitted to the governor for evaluation. Federal and state compensation processes differ, and we are working to address these complexities,” he added.

Project Funding and Execution Strategy

The minister also confirmed that funding for the project had been secured, with 30 percent of the contract sum already processed administratively, though yet to be disbursed to the contractor.

“Our policy mandates that contractors commence work immediately upon project award. We expect to see permanent work in progress. The funds are available with the ministry and will be released once the contractor fully mobilizes to the site,” Umahi stated.

He further emphasized strict adherence to project timelines, warning that no delays or cost variations would be tolerated.

The construction of this access road is expected to significantly ease traffic congestion on the Asaba-Benin Road, which experiences heavy vehicular movement, particularly during festive periods.