By Nkechi Eze
The Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, has announced presidential approval for the dualisation of the road linking Bodo–Bonny to the East-West Road in Rivers State, a development expected to significantly enhance connectivity and economic activities in the Niger Delta.
According to an official signed statement by the Senior Special Assistant to the Honourable Minister of Works (Media), Francis Nwaze, the disclosure was made when the Minister received the new Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas, Adeleye Falade, during a courtesy visit to the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.
The meeting focused on the recently completed Bodo–Bonny Road and the next phase of infrastructure development, particularly the strategic connection to the East-West Road, a critical transport corridor in the oil-rich region.
Speaking during the engagement, Umahi revealed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the construction of an 8.9-kilometre dual carriageway to link the Bodo–Bonny Road to the East-West Road. He explained that the project would be executed using concrete pavement technology and will feature two flyovers, solar-powered street lighting, and modern surveillance infrastructure.
The Minister noted that the Federal Government is working with Julius Berger, which is already on site, to ensure cost efficiency and continuity, adding that the terrain presents significant engineering challenges that have influenced the projected cost of about ₦150 billion.
Umahi further disclosed that savings from the Bodo–Bonny Road project have been reinvested into additional improvements, including solar lighting and environmental enhancements such as tree planting along the corridor.
He emphasized that the Tinubu administration is prioritizing durable infrastructure designed to last between 50 and 100 years with minimal maintenance, while also integrating safety features such as street lighting and planned deployment of CCTV systems to enhance security and emergency response on major highways.
Earlier, a member of the delegation, Abdul Humaru, introduced the NLNG team, stating that the visit was both to formally present the new CEO and to strengthen institutional collaboration.
In his remarks, Falade expressed appreciation to the Federal Government for its sustained support, particularly on the Bodo–Bonny Road project, which he said has already transformed mobility and economic activities on Bonny Island.
He noted that travel time from Port Harcourt to Bonny has reduced drastically from about four hours to approximately one and a half hours, describing the project as a major boost for residents and businesses.
Falade also reiterated NLNG’s readiness to support the newly approved road project, stressing the importance of the 8.9-kilometre link in maximizing the full economic potential of the Bodo–Bonny corridor.
The engagement underscores ongoing collaboration between the Federal Government and NLNG in delivering critical infrastructure aimed at improving transportation, enhancing trade, and driving sustainable development in the Niger Delta region.
