By Unue Emeka,
The Federal Government has commenced construction of the 17.5km dual carriage access road to the Second Niger Bridge, marking another milestone in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to improving national infrastructure.
At the flag-off ceremony, the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, heaped praise on Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, for his administration’s strides in infrastructural development and his cooperation with the federal government, irrespective of party differences.
President Tinubu, represented by Governor Oborevwori, described the project as a vital step towards enhancing connectivity, trade, and economic growth between the South-South and South-East. He reaffirmed his administration’s determination to modernize Nigeria’s road network, citing ongoing projects like the multi-billion-naira Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road as evidence of his commitment. “A strong and resilient economy is built on modern infrastructure,” the President stated, emphasizing the necessity of investing in roads, rail, and water transport systems.
Governor Oborevwori, in his remarks, expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for his inclusive approach to national development, particularly the rehabilitation of the Benin-Asaba Expressway and the commencement of the Niger Bridge access road.
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FG begins 2nd Niger bridge access road, Umahi applauds Oborevwori’s infrastructural drive[/caption]
He acknowledged that these roads are crucial for trade and commerce, describing them as “strategic link roads” connecting major economic zones. “On behalf of the government and good people of Delta State, I want to express our profound gratitude to Mr. President for his exemplary leadership,” he said.
Minister of Works, David Umahi, commended Oborevwori for transforming Delta State into a ‘huge construction site’, citing the governor’s interventions on federal roads and his three major flyover projects in Warri. “Your actions, your commitment to the development of your people, your character, content, and conduct best describe you as a progressive,” Umahi stated. He noted that Oborevwori’s leadership had lifted a significant burden from the federal government, underscoring the importance of state-federal cooperation in infrastructural development.
As work begins on the Second Niger Bridge access road, stakeholders expressed optimism that the project would ease transportation bottlenecks, boost regional commerce, and strengthen economic ties between the South-East and South-South. The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Works, Engr. Olufunsho Adebiyi, emphasized the road’s role in improving regional connectivity and fostering economic expansion. With Delta State playing a key role in national infrastructure renewal, Governor Oborevwori’s contributions continue to attract recognition at the highest levels of government.
