President Bola Tinubu has approved the re-award of two bypasses for the 2nd Niger Bridge. These bypasses will connect to the Asaba-Benin and Enugu-Onitsha dual-carriageways. Additionally, he has given the go-ahead for Section III of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway to begin in the Cross River-Akwa Ibom area. The East-West Road will also receive priority attention.

The Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, announced these developments when he met with members of the South-South caucus of the 10th Assembly. He emphasized the government’s commitment to improving road infrastructure to boost economic growth.

Commitment to Road Development

Umahi highlighted the administration’s “Renewed Hope” projects, aimed at addressing long-standing road failures and deficiencies.

He praised President Tinubu for his determination to complete major road projects, including the 700-kilometer Lagos-Calabar Highway.

He assured that these projects would be completed on time with the necessary support.

The minister also warned that contracts for federal roads that are not progressing well would be terminated.

He encouraged lawmakers to monitor projects in their regions to ensure contractors meet expectations.

Umahi outlined several projects that the federal government is focusing on in the South-South region, including:

• East-West Road: The government recently re-awarded three sections of this road. The Eleme-Onne section will have a 15-kilometer dual carriageway, one bridge, and a flyover. To complete it by December, additional contractors may be engaged.
• Agbor Route: This project will be executed through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) and is awaiting approval.
• 2nd Niger Bridge Bypasses: Tinubu has approved the construction of two bypasses in Delta and Anambra States to improve access to the bridge.
• Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway: The president has ordered that work begin on Section III in Cross River and Akwa Ibom.

Hon. Agbedi Yeitiemone Frederick, who led the South-South caucus, urged the federal government to push contractors to speed up road construction.

He pointed out the difficulties people face when traveling between South-South states and to other parts of Nigeria.

“We appreciate the efforts, but the work is moving too slowly. Our people are suffering,” he said. He also called for contractors to support local communities by providing jobs and skills training.

The Minister of State for Works, Rt. Hon. Mohammad Bello Goronyo, reassured Nigerians that the government is committed to fixing the country’s roads.

He urged citizens to support the administration’s vision to improve infrastructure and drive national development.

With these new approvals, Nigeria is set to witness significant progress in its road infrastructure, enhancing connectivity and economic growth across the country.