The Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed its dedication to delivering top-tier road infrastructure aligned with global standards, contributing to the economic recovery plan of President Sen. Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
The commitment was reiterated by the Hon. Minister of Works, Sen. Engr. Nweze David Umahi, during the official handover of the completed 2nd Niger Bridge project and ancillary facilities to the government.
The minister expressed satisfaction with the work done by the contractor, Julius Berger Nigeria (JBN) Plc, and acknowledged the efforts of the past administration of President Muhammadu Buhari and his predecessor, Hon. Minister of Works Babatunde Raji Fashola, in bringing the project to fruition. Sen. Umahi commended the impeccable completion of the project and outlined future plans to enhance the infrastructure.
In line with President Buhari’s innovative road infrastructure initiatives, the Ministry of Works aims to install solar-powered lighting along the project, complete the two interchanges, acquire additional land for service stations, ensure road security through CCTV cameras, and explore concession options through the HDMI program.
The minister emphasized the importance of completing the interchanges to fully consider the project concluded. While Julius Berger and RCC are proposed for the interchange jobs, the ministry remains open to investors willing to fund these aspects through concessions. Plans include acquiring more land for service stations and engaging the private sector for the development of public facilities such as hotels, restaurants, and supermarkets.
Sen. Umahi assured that security surveillance would be bolstered through CCTV cameras and the deployment of personnel to ensure swift response within the region. Despite the federal government taking over the completed 2nd Niger Bridge, the contractor remains liable within the defect liability period. The toll will be activated once the interchanges are completed.
During the handover ceremony, Engr. Obioha, Director of Bridge Design and Construction at the Federal Ministry of Works, thanked the government for ensuring the project’s completion. He urged the public to abide by road rules and contribute to the safety and protection of installations along the road.
Julius Berger Nigeria’s Managing Director, Dr. Las Ritcher, expressed confidence in the quality of work delivered and handed over the project to the Federal Ministry of Works. The contract awarded to Julius Berger included the construction of the 2nd Niger Bridge and the access road from the existing Benin-Asaba Expressway.
Simultaneously, on the same day, the Hon. Minister of Works inspected the ongoing project site of CGG Nig. Ltd for the Rehabilitation of Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway Section 111: Enugu-Lokpanta 61.15 km road and visited the collapsed New Artisan bridge along NNPC Mega Fillings Station on the Enugu-PH Expressway in Enugu State, both expected to be completed promptly.
