Minister of Works, Sen. David Umahi, has issued a directive for Julius Berger PLC, the contractor handling the Bodo-Bonny road and bridge project in Rivers State, to return to the site for the project’s timely completion.
Expressing concern over the contractor’s absence despite being 84% complete, Umahi sets a new deadline of April 2024 for delivery.
Umahi, hosting a delegation from the Bodo-Bonny Road Peace Committee, reassured host communities of the Federal Government’s commitment under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. He emphasized the economic transformation significance of the project, initially awarded at N199b with a completion date of December 31, 2023.
The Minister expressed bewilderment at the contractor’s deviation from the agreed completion date and faulted their stance on project variations. He highlighted a 2017 partnership agreement between the Federal Government and Nigeria LNG (NLNG) for funding.
While praising host communities for their patience, Umahi urged them to maintain a peaceful approach. He pledged to ensure the project’s completion, warning against allowing equipment to be moved off-site until completion.
Umahi assured that the Federal Government would manage a coastal road in the region with more significant challenges at a lower cost than what is currently paid to Julius Berger. He criticized the contractor’s demobilization from the site, describing it as arrogant.
*The Federal Director of Bridges and Design, Engr. O. O. Awosanya, highlighted the project’s history and funding, stating that it was 84% complete. He noted the contractor’s request for a review, which contradicts the signed agreement.*
*Leader of the delegation and acting Chairman of the Peace Committee, Chief Charles John Jumbo, expressed displeasure over Julius Berger’s demobilization and abandonment of the project despite substantial funds committed. The delegation urged the Federal Government’s timely intervention to avert hardship in the area.*
