By Daniel Tyokua
The federal government has approved the extension of the Bodo–Bonny Road by 8.7 kilometre, and the Akwanga-Jos-Maiduguri roads to improve connectivity in the Niger Delta and North east regions.
Briefing journalists in Abuja, on Thursday, the Minister of Works, David Umahi, described the approval as part of President Bola Tinubu’s broader directive to accelerate critical road projects across the country.
He said “Yesterday, the president graciously directed that the Ministry of Works should extend the Bodo–Bonny Road by 8.7 kilometres using reinforced concrete up to the East–West Road,”.
Umahi said the decision is a major boost to economic activities in Rivers State and the South-South, noting that the extension would enhance access to coastal communities and strengthen regional integration.
The Minister explained that the extension reflects the administration’s resolve to sustain inherited projects and expand their scope where necessary.
“The president did not stop any inherited project. He directed the continuation of all projects and also approved extensions where they are critical to national development,” he said.
The minister said the Tinubu administration has prioritised durable infrastructure, stressing that reinforced concrete technology has been adopted to ensure longevity and value for money.
“The roads we are building now will last between 50 and 100 years. This is very important because Nigerians deserve infrastructure that will stand the test of time,” he said.
The Minister also said the President approved the continuation of Akwanga -Jos-Gombe road project to Biu-Maiduguri.
He said “another fantastic news.when we talk about the Fort Legacy project of the President Tinubu, it is the Akwanga to Jos to Borno State. That was what the President gave to me, that route is supposed to be Akwanga, Jos, Gombe, to Maiduguri.
“And so the President has thought that not only that, you know, the situation should be corrected for what it is, especially for the locals, but should also procure the project for the work starting from Akwanga, another work should start from Maiduguri, going to Gombe, going to Bauch. And so I think the President is in a very serious conundrum,”
