Bodo-Bonny Road Project Marks Major Milestone, Communities Applaud Federal Government
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to infrastructure-led development following the successful delivery and ongoing expansion of the Bodo-Bonny Road and Bridges Project, now open to traffic.
This milestone was celebrated at a Medallion Award Ceremony organised by the Bodo-Bonny Road & Bridges Peace Committee on Friday, March 27, 2026, at the Yar’Adua Centre, Abuja. The event brought together national leaders, senior government officials, traditional rulers, key stakeholders, and representatives of the Bodo-Bonny communities, reflecting broad-based support and shared national pride in the landmark achievement.
Representing the Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, the Minister of State for Works, Bello Muhammad Goronyo, Esq., conveyed the Ministry’s goodwill and reaffirmed the Renewed Hope Administration’s determination to deliver critical infrastructure across the country.
He described the Bodo-Bonny Road and Bridges as a strategic economic corridor that will enhance connectivity, facilitate trade, and integrate coastal communities into the national economy. He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for prioritising the project, noting that its completion reflects policy continuity and a sustained national development agenda.
The Minister also acknowledged the contributions of former Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN, as well as the technical leadership of Engr. Umahi. He further praised the efforts of the contractors, particularly Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, and recognised the support of Nigeria LNG Limited under the Tax Credit Scheme, all of which were instrumental to the project’s success.
He disclosed that approval has been granted for Phase II of the project, which is expected to commence shortly, with the aim of expanding infrastructure and strengthening economic linkages within the Niger Delta region.
In his goodwill message, the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, Mr. Ogbodo Chinasa Nnam, described the project as a critical national asset with significant socio-economic benefits. He emphasised the importance of strong maintenance frameworks to ensure long-term sustainability and advocated the replication of similar infrastructure initiatives nationwide.
Chairman of the Award Ceremony Sub-Committee, Prof. Jasper Jumbo, described the project as a product of sustained collaboration, stakeholder engagement, and policy innovation. He noted that challenges encountered during implementation—including funding constraints, environmental considerations, and security issues—were effectively addressed through coordinated interventions such as Executive Order 7 and the tax credit financing model.
Special recognition awards and medals were presented to key contributors to the project’s conception and delivery. Awardees included President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Minister of Works Engr. David Umahi, former Minister Babatunde Raji Fashola, Minister of State Bello Muhammad Goronyo, and Permanent Secretary Rafiu Adeladan.
The Bodo-Bonny Road and Bridges Peace Committee was also commended for its pivotal role in fostering dialogue, strengthening community relations, and ensuring a conducive environment for project execution.
Speaking on behalf of the host communities, Elder Simialaye Young Pepple, President of the Bonny Improvement Association (Abuja Branch), expressed appreciation to the Federal Government for delivering what he described as “a long-awaited project.” He noted that the road has resolved longstanding accessibility challenges and represents a transformative development for the Bonny Kingdom.
