Umahi: Tinubu's Second Term Key to Bodo-Bonny Phase 2 Delivery
Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, has informed the residents of Bodo-Bonny communities that the most reliable path to finishing the second section of the Bodo-Bonny road project is their endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's re-election campaign. The minister conveyed this message on Friday during the Medallion award presentation hosted by the Bodo-Bonny Road and Bridges Peace Committee in Abuja, characterizing the road as a vital connection to opportunities, including economic advantages, and stressing that the Federal Government prioritizes the initiative.
Road as a Bridge to Opportunity
Represented by the Minister of State for Works, Bello Goronyo, Umahi articulated, "The road is a bridge to opportunity, a lifeline for commerce, and a symbol of national cohesion. It connects coastal communities to the mainland, reduces insecurity, and opens doors for prosperity across the Niger Delta." He affirmed that the Tinubu-led administration remains unwavering in its objective to enhance national connectivity through superior road infrastructure.
Approval and Readiness for Phase 2
The Minister disclosed that President Tinubu has sanctioned Phase 2 of the Bodo-Bonny project, and the Ministry is prepared to take necessary actions, noting that "one good turn deserves another." He emphasized, "The ministry is ready; we are putting pen to paper to start work immediately." Umahi highlighted President Tinubu's inclusive approach, stating, "This is to tell you that Mr. President loves everybody in this country, whether you are from the north, south, east, or west. He is a president for all, a president that loves the unity of this nation."
Call for Continuity and Support
While praising the award organizers, Umahi reiterated, "So you must make sure that you rally around Mr. President to ensure continuity of this project so that by 2027 when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu returns, this project will continue, enabling us to connect our people, commercial activities, and families and friends."
Historical Context and Challenges
Earlier, Prof. Jasper Jumbo, Chairman of the Planning Committee for the Bodo-Bonny road project award ceremony, remarked that Nigeria has finally acknowledged the communities after a grueling 38-year wait for the project. He described the event as a moment of reflection, recognition, and celebration of a transformative vision that had long resided in the hopes of its people and is now materializing due to the determination of President Tinubu's administration.
Jumbo pointed out that the Bodo-Bonny corridor, despite being a globally significant hub for oil and gas activities, remained isolated from the Nigerian mainland, heavily dependent on water transportation. "This disconnect posed challenges not only to commerce and industry but also to the daily lives, safety, and aspirations of our people," he noted.
Overcoming Obstacles
He explained that through resolute leadership, persistent advocacy, and collaborative commitment, the narrative began to shift when the contract was awarded to Messrs Gitto Construction, which struggled to manage the project's numerous demands. Jumbo recounted, "Witnessing the many challenges facing the road project, we resolved against all odds to persuade and convince various stakeholders from the project's catchment areas to fully cooperate, make necessary sacrifices, and support both the contractor and key Ministry officials to overcome previous obstacles and realize this project in our lifetime."
Commendation for Government Response
He commended Minister Umahi for heeding the people's appeals and facilitating approval for Phase Two of the Bodo-Bonny Road project, which aims to link coastal neighborhoods with the East-West Road. "We are indeed amazed at this marvelous accommodation of our dreams and request," Jumbo concluded.
