Abuja: The Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, has expressed strong confidence that a second term for President Bola Tinubu will ensure the completion of Phase 2 of the Bodo-Bonny Road project in Rivers. Umahi, represented by the Minister of State for Works, Bello Goronyo, made the statement at the Medallion Award Presentation organised by the Bodo-Bonny Road and Bridges Peace Committee on Friday in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Umahi described the Bodo-Bonny Road Project as a powerful symbol of leadership, continuity, partnership, and peace, emphasising its significance beyond mere infrastructure. He highlighted the road as more than a physical link, calling it a bridge to opportunity, a lifeline for commerce, and a symbol of national cohesion that connects coastal communities to the mainland, opening doors to prosperity across the Niger Delta.
Umahi praised the President for prioritising the landmark project under the Renewed Hope Agenda and encouraged the Bodo-Bonny commun’
ities to support Tinubu’s second-term ambition to ensure the project’s completion. He expressed that the project is not merely an engineering feat but a testament to leadership, continuity, partnership, and peace.
Umahi emphasized the President’s inclusive love for all regions of the country, urging the communities to support President Tinubu to ensure this project’s continuity. He foresees that by 2027, with President Bola Tinubu’s return, the project will continue to connect people, support commercial activities, and link families and friends.
The minister confirmed that Tinubu had approved Phase 2 of the Bodo-Bonny project and that the ministry was already preparing to commence work immediately. He commended the organisers for awarding key actors in the Bodo-Bonny Road project and reiterated the importance of reciprocating given support.
Earlier, Chief Jasper Jumbo, Chairman of the Planning Committee for the Bodo-Bonny Road Project Award ceremony, expressed gratitude for the government’s commitment after a 38-year struggle with the project. He praised the president’s administration for addressing the road challenge, noting the corridor’s significance as a global hub for oil and gas activities that remains disconnected from the Nigerian mainland.
Jumbo acknowledged the challenges posed by the disconnect to commerce, industry, and daily life and expressed optimism that through leadership, advocacy, and collaboration, the narrative is changing. He urged stakeholders to cooperate and make necessary sacrifices to overcome past challenges and realise the project.
He commended the minister for facilitating the approval of Phase 2 of the Bodo-Bonny Road project, which will link coastal neighborhoods with the East-West Road, and expressed amazement at the government’s responsiveness to their dreams and requests. Jumbo concluded with prayers for the president’s strength and reelection in 2027, hoping for the continuation of Sen. Dave Umahi’s service as Minister of Works.