FG Disburses 30% Mobilisation for 2nd Niger Bridge Bypasses, Sets 2026 Deadline for East-West Road Reconstruction

 

The administration of President Bola Tinubu has disbursed 30% mobilisation funds for the construction of two critical bypasses on the Second Niger Bridge, linking the Asaba-Benin and Enugu-Onitsha dual carriageways. This significant move aims to expedite the completion of the project and enhance connectivity in the region.

In addition, the Federal Government has assured Nigerians that the reconstruction of the flood-damaged East-West Road in Rivers State will be completed between December 2025 and March 2026. The Minister of Works, David Umahi, made these disclosures while inspecting ongoing federal road projects in Rivers State.

Government Commits to Infrastructure Development

Speaking to journalists, Umahi expressed excitement over the progress being made on key infrastructure projects. He revealed that mobilisation payments had also been made for sections 1 and 3 of the Abuja-Kano highway, underscoring the administration’s commitment to road infrastructure development.

“I received an alert confirming that 30% mobilisation has been paid on Abuja-Kano, section 1 and 3, and I’m very excited about this. I highly commend President Bola Tinubu for his commitment,” Umahi stated.

He further highlighted the importance of the bypasses on the Second Niger Bridge, which have been awarded to construction firms CCECC and CJC. According to him, the mobilisation payments made will ensure the swift completion of these projects, allowing full utilisation of the already completed Second Niger Bridge.

“This is great news for the people of Anambra and the Niger Delta. Finally, sections 2A and 2B of the Second Niger Bridge bypasses are set to be completed. The President has provided 30% mobilisation to the contractors, which is a commendable step towards completing this critical national infrastructure,” Umahi said.

Inspection of Key Road Projects

During his two-day inspection tour, Umahi visited several ongoing road projects, including the Eleme-Onne Road handled by RCC, the Bodo-Bonny Road being constructed by Julius Berger, the Rivers-Bayelsa section of the East-West Road under SETRACO, and the rehabilitation of the Enugu-Port Harcourt dual carriageway (Aba-Port Harcourt section) being executed by CCECC.

He expressed satisfaction with the quality of work being delivered, emphasizing the administration’s dedication to infrastructural development in the Niger Delta and beyond.

“I am fulfilling one of the President’s directives, which is to empower local contractors. We have numerous road projects, and while expatriate firms play a key role, local contractors must also be given opportunities to contribute,” he said.

Addressing Challenges on the East-West Road

Umahi specifically addressed the longstanding issues affecting the East-West Road, highlighting the devastating impact of past floods on the project. He reiterated that the administration is prioritizing durable solutions, including the adoption of concrete roads in critical sections.

“The major problem with the East-West Road, from Lokoja through Rivers and down to Cross River, has been rapid deterioration due to flooding and unstable terrain. The only long-term solution is to construct concrete roads, and I’m pleased that the President is tackling this issue,” Umahi explained.

He pointed out that a similar flood-prone section in Ughelli is already 70% completed under Tinubu’s administration. Additionally, work is ongoing on four sections of the Lokoja-Benin Road, three sections of the Benin-Warri highway, and the Eket bypass.

Regarding the Eleme-Onne project, he remarked, “It’s a beauty to behold. We are very happy with the progress.”

Recognition for Contractors and Project Timelines

While inspecting the East-West Road, Umahi commended SETRACO Nigeria Ltd for their dedication and efficiency. He confirmed that section 2, sub-section 1 (47km) has been fully completed and will be commissioned before the end of May 2025.

“For section 2:2, about 22km of work remains. Anyone claiming the entire road will be completed this year is not being realistic. The project timeline extends to November 2025, and we must ensure that the remaining sections are finished by then,” Umahi stated.

He also acknowledged the challenges faced by contractors due to outdated project rates, assuring them that the government is reviewing costs to accommodate economic realities.

“We understand that current contract rates are obsolete, but we appreciate the cooperation of contractors who continue working while we finalize procurement adjustments,” he added.

Local Contractors Outperforming Expectations

Umahi concluded by praising the performance of indigenous contractors, emphasizing that their work now matches—if not surpasses—that of foreign firms.

“Under President Tinubu, we are witnessing a transformation in the construction sector. The work of our local contractors is often of superior quality, and their commitment is commendable,” he said.

Conclusion

With these latest developments, the Tinubu administration continues to demonstrate its resolve to improve Nigeria’s road infrastructure. The timely release of funds, coupled with strict project monitoring, signals a renewed push for the completion of key national road projects. As work progresses, citizens, especially those in the Niger Delta and southeastern regions, eagerly anticipate the long-overdue completion of these vital transportation links.