Bodo – Bonny road project gets 2022 delivery date

The Federal Government has reassured Nigerians that the 37.9km Bodo/Bonny road project would be ready by 2022.

The N120 billion project, which traversed Bodo, Opobo, Andoni to Bonny Island, has 14 bridges.

Speaking during the inspection of the facility, the Director, Road Designs, Federal Ministry of Works and Housing, Omotayo Awosanya, said adequate funds have been made available to ensure that it is delivered at the stipulated time.

He stated that with the extensive works already done by the contractors, Nigerians wouldn’t be disappointed.

The project, he stated will reduce the cost of oil production and other economic businesses in Rivers State, adding that only the Nigerian Liquidified Gas (NLNG) is currently funding the entire project.

On his part, the Project Manager, Julius Berger Plc, Thomas Haug, said the project had witnessed enormous progress since 2017, adding that funding would not pose any challenge.

Haug disclosed that the firm has completed major engineering works and bridges, assuring that in two years’ time; the entire project would be delivered.

Also speaking, the Federal Government representative on the project, Eseme Udoh, revealed that the road section is being revised to include flexible pavement on sand-filled embankment, and rigid pavement within Bonny town. 

He said that the project would contribute to the development of the Niger Delta region, and open up opportunities for rapid economic development.

The traditional ruler of Ataba Kingdom, HRH, Dr. Benson Egwenre, said the project means a lot to his people.

“A lot of riverine areas has been faced with challenges of accessing their ancestral homes for decades, but since this project was re-awarded, our hopes came alive because this will de-congest Bonny island, create a lot of economic opportunities for our people, reduce youth restiveness. As 100 youths from Ataba community are to be engaged by the project contractor next month”, he said.