In a pivotal moment, the Federal Government of Nigeria has officially taken charge of the completed 2nd Niger Bridge and adjoining access roads, previously overseen by Julius Berger Nigeria Plc. The Hon. Minister of Works, Sen. Engr. Nweze David Umahi,CON, expressed profound satisfaction with the completed project, crediting its inception to the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Acknowledging the significant contributions of the immediate past administration of President Mohammadu Buhari and the former Minister of Works, His Excellency Babatunde Raji Fashola, CON, SAN, the Hon. Minister praised the beauty and precision with which the project was executed.
Looking ahead, the Ministry of Works, in alignment with President’s innovations in road infrastructure, unveiled a visionary plan. This includes the installation of solar-powered lights along the entire project length, completion of the two interchanges of the bridges, acquisition of additional land for service stations, and heightened security measures through the installation of CCTV cameras. Furthermore, the Ministry plans to consider the concession of the project through the HDMI programme.
Addressing the persistent issue of inadequate lighting, the Minister emphasized the commitment to finding a permanent solution, particularly during the night, with a unanimous agreement on a solar-powered approach. The project’s ultimate completion is contingent upon finishing the two interchanges, strategically designed to divert traffic away from Asaba and Onitsha towns, ensuring a smoother journey.
In a nod to potential private sector involvement, the Minister conveyed openness to investors willing to fund the interchanges, proposing concession opportunities under the HDMI programme. Additional land acquisition is in the works for the establishment of service stations, hotels, restaurants, supermarkets, and other public facilities, mirroring Western standards.
While assuming control of the 2nd Niger Bridge, the Minister clarified that the contractor, Julius Berger, remains liable within the defect liability period. In case of any issues in the completed job, the contractor will be called upon to address them.
The commitment of the Federal Government to delivering world-class road infrastructure, aligning with global standards, was reiterated. This commitment is seen as a vital component of the economic recovery action plan under the Renewed Hope administration of President Sen. Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.
The handover ceremony, held at the 2nd Niger Bridge toll station, marks a significant milestone. The toll will be activated upon completion of the two interchanges. During the ceremony, the Director Bridge Design and Construction, Federal Ministry of Works, Engr. Obioha, expressed gratitude to the Federal Government for ensuring the timely completion of the project. He urged the public to support the government’s efforts by adhering to road rules and ensuring the safety of installations.
Dr. Las Ritcher, Managing Director of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, noted the technical handover to the Federal Ministry of Works. He expressed confidence that Sen. Umahi’s commitment to quality delivery would ensure the project’s continued success.
The contract awarded to Julius Berger Nigeria Plc covers the construction of the 2nd Niger Bridge (Contract No. 6475) and the access road from the existing Benin-Asaba Expressway to the approach link road to the 2nd Niger Bridge (Contract No. 7919).
As a testament to ongoing inspections and commitment, the Hon. Minister of Works also visited the project site of CGG Nig. Ltd for the Rehabilitation of Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway Section III. Additionally, he inspected the collapsed New Artisan bridge along NNPC Mega Filling Station Enugu-PH Expressway, Enugu State, where ongoing works are expected to be delivered promptly. The meticulous oversight underscores the government’s dedication to comprehensive infrastructure development.
