President Bola Tinubu has approved the re-award of two bypasses for the 2nd Niger Bridge, linking Asaba-Benin and Enugu-Onisha dual-carriageways. Additionally, he authorized the commencement of Section III of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, covering the Cross River-Akwa Ibom axis, and directed accelerated attention to the East-West Road.
Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, shared these developments during a meeting with the South/South caucus of the 10th National Assembly at the Ministry’s Abuja headquarters. He expressed gratitude for the caucus’s support for the government’s road infrastructure initiatives, particularly the Renewed Hope administration’s efforts to improve Nigeria’s road network.
Umahi commended the President for his boldness in advancing major projects like the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the Second Niger Bridge. He emphasized that these projects are vital for economic growth, assuring that, with support, they would be completed successfully.
The Minister also detailed ongoing projects in the South/South region, including sections of the East-West Road. He pointed out the need for additional contractors to complete the Eleme-Onne road section on time and discussed plans for the Agbor route under a Public-Private Partnership model.
The Minister announced that the President had also approved the bypasses in Delta and Anambra States, which will make the 2nd Niger Bridge fully operational once completed. Additionally, the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway’s Section III will soon begin in Cross River and Akwa Ibom.
Hon. Agbedi Yeitiemone Frederick, leader of the South/South caucus, praised the government’s approval of these projects but expressed concern about the slow pace of construction, which is affecting local communities. He urged contractors to invest in local employment and development as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility.
The Honourable Minister of State for Works, Rt. Hon. Mohammad Bello Goronyo, assured that the government is committed to improving Nigeria’s roads and called for continued support from all Nigerians to achieve the nation’s infrastructure goals.
