- The directive came during his inspection of federal road projects,
- contractor to remove all barricades by the end of November
- He urged Nigerians to protect public infrastructure
Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi has ordered that the Bodo-Bonny Road project in Rivers State be opened to motorists by the end of November, with full completion and commissioning set for December.
Eko Hot Blog reported that the directive was issued during his inspection of federal road projects across the South-South and South-East regions, where he reviewed progress on the 37.9-kilometre project handled by Julius Berger Nigeria Plc.
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The minister revealed that the project, which began in October 2017, has seen multiple cost revisions — from ₦120 billion to ₦199 billion, and now ₦280 billion — following President Bola Tinubu’s approval to ensure its timely completion.
He explained that the project’s cost, which translates to about ₦7.4 billion per kilometre, is fair considering the challenging coastal terrain and the high quality of construction.
Umahi instructed the contractor to remove all barricades by the end of November to allow partial traffic flow, while final asphalt work on the remaining sections continues.
He also announced plans to install solar-powered streetlights, CCTV cameras, and trees along the route to enhance security and aesthetics, using funds from the project’s contingency allocation.
At the Eleme-Onne section of the East-West Road, the minister expressed satisfaction with work being executed by Reynolds Construction Company (RCC). He noted that the road had been redesigned from asphalt to reinforced concrete pavement to withstand heavy industrial use.
Umahi assured that one carriageway and the Aleto Bridge would be ready soon, while other flyovers and bridges would be delivered by April next year.
He urged Nigerians to protect public infrastructure, warning against misuse such as parking trucks on bridges or dumping refuse on road medians.
Umahi reaffirmed President Tinubu’s dedication to completing critical infrastructure nationwide, adding that all NNPC-funded road projects would receive continuous financial support.
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