The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has called on stakeholders, traditional institutions, and host communities along the Bodo-Bonny corridor to support the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, emphasizing that continuity in leadership remains crucial for the successful completion of Phase II of the strategic Bodo-Bonny Road project.
Umahi made this appeal on Friday in Abuja during the Medallion Award Ceremony organised by the Bodo-Bonny Road and Bridges Peace Committee. Represented at the event by the Minister of State for Works, Bello Goronyo, the minister underscored the importance of sustained government policies in delivering large-scale infrastructure projects that have long-term economic and social implications.
Describing the Bodo-Bonny Road as a landmark achievement, Umahi noted that the project represents far more than just a transportation corridor. According to him, it is a transformative initiative capable of reshaping the economic and social dynamics of coastal communities in Rivers State and the wider Niger Delta region.
“This road is more than a physical link; it is a bridge to opportunity, a lifeline for commerce, and a symbol of national cohesion,” Umahi said. “It connects coastal communities to the mainland, reduces insecurity, and opens doors for prosperity across the Niger Delta.”
The minister highlighted the Federal Government’s broader commitment to enhancing road infrastructure across the country, noting that improved connectivity is central to unlocking Nigeria’s economic potential. He explained that the Bodo-Bonny Road fits into a larger national strategy aimed at integrating remote communities into the mainstream economy, thereby fostering inclusive development.
Providing an update on the next phase of the project, Umahi disclosed that President Tinubu has already approved Phase II of the Bodo-Bonny Road, adding that preparatory steps are underway to commence construction without delay.
“Phase II of the project has been approved by Mr President, and we are already putting pen to paper to commence work immediately,” he stated.
He, however, stressed that the realization of the project’s full potential depends heavily on policy continuity, urging communities and stakeholders to rally behind the current administration to ensure that the gains already recorded are not disrupted.
“So you must make sure that you rally around Mr President to ensure continuity of this project, so that by 2027, when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu returns, this project will continue,” Umahi said.
The minister also used the occasion to commend President Tinubu’s approach to governance, particularly his emphasis on national unity and equitable development. He maintained that the administration’s infrastructure agenda is designed to benefit all parts of the country, regardless of geographical or political considerations.
“This is to tell you that Mr President loves everybody in this country, whether you are from the North, South, East, or West. He is a President for all and a leader committed to the unity of this nation,” Umahi added.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Planning Committee for the award ceremony, Chief Jasper Jumbo, described the completion of the Bodo-Bonny Road as a historic milestone that marks the end of decades of neglect experienced by communities in the corridor.
Jumbo noted that for many years, the Bodo-Bonny axis symbolized both immense economic potential and severe infrastructural challenges. Despite hosting critical oil and gas facilities, including those on Bonny Island, the area remained largely inaccessible by road and depended heavily on water transportation.
“For decades, the Bodo-Bonny corridor symbolised both economic potential and infrastructural limitation,” Jumbo said. “Despite being a major hub for oil and gas activities, it remained disconnected from the mainland and relied heavily on water transportation.”
He further recounted the numerous obstacles that delayed the project over the years, including funding constraints, technical disagreements, and community-related issues. According to him, persistent advocacy, dialogue, and collaboration among stakeholders eventually paved the way for the project’s realization.
“We witnessed years of disagreements, funding challenges, and community tensions. But we resolved against all odds to mobilise stakeholders, persuade communities, and support the government and contractors to realise this project in our lifetime,” he said.
Jumbo also commended the Ministry of Works, under Umahi’s leadership, for facilitating the approval of Phase II of the project, which is expected to extend the road network and strengthen its linkage with the East-West Road, a major arterial route in the Niger Delta.
Stakeholders at the event expressed optimism that the Bodo-Bonny Road would significantly boost economic activities in the region. The road connects Bonny Island—home to vital oil and gas infrastructure, including Nigeria LNG facilities—to mainland Rivers State, thereby improving logistics and reducing the cost and risks associated with transportation.
Industry observers believe the project will not only enhance operational efficiency in the oil and gas sector but also open up new opportunities for trade, investment, and tourism in the Niger Delta. Improved access is also expected to foster regional integration and strengthen ties between riverine and upland communities.
The Bodo-Bonny Road project gained renewed momentum during the tenure of former Minister of Works, Babatunde Fashola, following the introduction of Executive Order 7. The policy enabled private sector participation in infrastructure financing through tax credit schemes, with Nigeria LNG Limited playing a significant role in funding the project.
With the road now open to traffic and plans underway for further expansion, the Bodo-Bonny corridor is poised to usher in a new era of development. Residents and business owners alike are expected to benefit from improved accessibility, reduced travel time, and enhanced security.
As the Federal Government pushes forward with Phase II, stakeholders say sustained collaboration, community support, and policy consistency will be key to consolidating the gains already achieved and ensuring that the full benefits of the project are realized across the Niger Delta region.
