The Federal Government has officially launched the construction of Phase 2B of the access road to the Second Niger Bridge, a project expected to further ease transportation and boost economic activities across the South-East region. The groundbreaking ceremony took place at Ogbunike along the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway, with President Bola Tinubu represented by Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo.
Speaking at the event, President Tinubu described the bridge, commissioned in 2023, as a game-changer for interstate commuting but noted that its full benefits had been slowed by incomplete access roads. “This new phase will address the missing links by delivering a 17.5-kilometre dual carriageway with seven bridges and modern facilities, including security cameras to ensure safety along the corridor,” he said.
The Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, explained that funding for the project would follow a work-progress model, with 30 per cent of the contract sum already disbursed. He urged host communities to support the construction, warning against disruptions. “President Tinubu’s commitment to South-East development is clear, from key appointments in his government to projects like this one. This road will transform interstate travel, reduce traffic congestion, and stimulate trade across Anambra and Delta states,” Umahi said.
Governor Soludo commended the Federal Government’s efforts but stressed that the bridge would only be fully functional when the entire 35-kilometre access road is completed. He appealed to traditional rulers and youth leaders to cooperate with contractors to ensure timely delivery. “We must work together to prevent obstructions. This project is too important for our region’s growth to be delayed,” Soludo said.
The contractor, CGC Nigeria Limited, represented by General Manager Gius Cheng, assured stakeholders of timely and quality execution. He pledged that the project would meet international standards and deliver lasting value to the region.
The ceremony featured cultural prayers led by Igwe Awkuzu, the closest traditional ruler to the project site, invoking blessings for its successful completion.
