By Jabiru Hassan.
The highly-anticipated construction of Access Roads to the Second Niger Bridge linking the South East with the South South will open windows of socioeconomic opportunities when completed and fully operational.
This was disclosed by the President, His Excellency, Sen. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR in Ogbunuike, Oyi LGA in Anambra State, while officially flagging off construction work on the Phase 2B of the Access Road to the 2nd Niger Bridge on 25th March, 2025.
That of Phase 2A was performed on Monday in Asaba, Delta State. The President, who was represented by the Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, described the project as marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s infrastructural renaissance.
“This landmark project, when completed, would enhance connectivity, and ease transportation, and traffic congestion, as well as spur socioeconomic activities in the zone.
Speaking, on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Works, Engr. Olufunsho Adebiyi, the Director of Highways, Bridges and Design, Engr. Bede Obioha emphasised the importance of collective support from stakeholders, including the Anambra State Government, Local Government Authorities, and the host communities.
He stated “Your expertise, passion, and collaboration will be instrumental in driving this project forward.
I appeal to the Anambra State Government, Local government Authorities, Residents, and Communities along the corridor to support this project during the construction period.
Your assistance will encourage the Contractor to execute the project seamlessly. I urge CGC Nigeria Limited to remain focused on the primary objective – constructing the road to the Second Niger Bridge. Let us work together to make this project a resounding success.”
Also, speaking at the event, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement, South East, Barr. Chioma Nweze reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to infrastructural transformation in the zone.
“It is with great honour and deep gratitude that I stand before you today to celebrate a monumental achievement in our collective quest for progress, connectivity, and economic transformation.
Today’s event marks a significant moment in our journey towards modernising infrastructure, fostering economic growth, and ensuring seamless mobility for our people.
For decades, the need for a sustainable alternative to the old Niger Bridge has been a pressing concern, as countless commuters and businesses have faced difficulties that stifled economic potential
. At last, that dream has become a reality” she stated. She further extends her heartfelt appreciation to all stakeholders who have played a vital role in the success of the engineering marvel.
As the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement for the zone, she reaffirmed her commitment to championing developmental projects that uplift the people.
She promised that her office would continue to collaborate with relevant Stakeholders to ensure that the South-East remains a priority in national infrastructure planning and development.
“The vision for a prosperous South-East is evident, not just in words, but in action,” she reassured.
The Minister of Works Engr (Sen) David Umahi CON, FNSE, FNATE stated that it was a great privilege to mark yet another giant leap in Nigeria’s infrastructural transformation.
“The event is not just about roads and bridges – it is about connectivity, economic growth, and the promise of a better future for our people, he insisted.
For too long, travelers and businesses have endured severe transportation challenges across key routes linking the South-East to other parts of the country.
He disclosed that the Interchange to Ore, Benin to Asaba Expressway, the East-West Road, and the old Niger Bridge, amongst other corridors in the region were nightmares for commuters, causing delays, economic losses, and untold hardship.
“But under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the story has changed, says the Minister.
The Federal Government’s commitment to modernising our road network is evident: 1. Lagos-Shagamu Interchange to Benin: The contract has been awarded, and 30% of the funding has already been released to ensure swift execution.
Work is ongoing, and soon, commuters will experience a smooth and stress-free journey. 2. Benin to Asaba Expressway: Just a few days ago, the Ministry flagged off the 125km dual carriageway, totaling 250km of high-standard road infrastructure.
Construction is in full swing, with heavy equipment already deployed. 3. Asaba to the 2nd Niger Bridge: The remaining 9km stretch connecting Summit Junction to the old and 2nd Bridge is set to commence in the coming weeks.
This segment will feature CCTV surveillance, solar-powered streetlights, and modern road safety measures to enhance security and ease of travel.
The transformation does not stop there, in addition to the project, the government has prioritised other critical road networks, including:
a. Onitsha to Warri Road: Already awarded for full rehabilitation.
b. Enugu to Port Harcourt Expressway: Construction is ongoing across its four (4) sections.
c. Enugu to Abakaliki Dualisation: Work is progressing steadily to ensure completion.
d. Makurdi to 9th Mile Expressway: A multi-billion Naira dualisation project currently ongoing, significantly improving access to the South-East. e. New Flyovers and Reconstructed Bridges in Enugu:
Two major flyovers and bridges that were previously damaged have been rebuilt, with additional infrastructure including CCTV cameras and solar lighting to prevent vandalism and ensure road safety.
To further reduce urban traffic congestion, the Federal Government is constructing a 17-kilometre Bypass that will reroute traffic from Onitsha, ensuring a direct, dualised concrete road connection to the 2nd Niger Bridge. This will eliminate traffic bottlenecks, shorten travel time, and provide a long-lasting solution to traffic gridlock in Anambra State.
President Tinubu’s administration remains steadfast in its resolve to prioritise road infrastructure across Nigeria.
Through strategic planning, monitoring and evaluation, timely funding, and strong partnerships with State Governments, Contractors, and the Private Sector, we are committed to ensuring that every region benefits from a modern, safe, and efficient road network.
To the people of Anambra and the South-East, Engr. Umahi assures that this is just the beginning. “Our goal is to create a fully integrated, motorable, and secure transport system that will drive economic growth and improve the quality of life for all Nigerians,” he added.
Finally, he urged all Stakeholders, the local communities, and Security Agencies to support and protect these projects saying that “Development is a shared responsibility, and together, we can build a Nigeria where mobility is no longer a challenge but a catalyst for progress.”
The Governor commended President Tinubu’s efforts in addressing long-standing infrastructural challenges and, most importantly for bringing the economy out of technical insolvency.
He also emphasised the transformative impact of a good road network, stating that the completion of these projects will drastically cut travel time between major South-East cities and reduce the cost of vehicle maintenance.
He appealed to the communities, urging them to embrace and protect this infrastructure. “Development is a shared responsibility, and we must work together to ensure that these projects are well-maintained and serve generations to come,” he observed.
Prof. Soludo extended his gratitude to the Honourable Minister of Works, the Presidency, other stakeholders, and every individual who contributed to making this dream a reality.
“Together, we are building a South-East that is stronger, more connected, and ready for the future,” he predicted.
This project is expected to enhance trade, facilitate seamless travel, and open new economic opportunities for communities in Anambra and beyond. Stakeholders were unanimous in reaffirming their commitment to working together towards ensuring the successful execution of the project.
