Minister Of works David Umahi Flags Off Construction of Second Niger Bridge Access Road
The construction of Phase 2B of the access road to the Second Niger Bridge has officially commenced, marking a major step in improving transportation infrastructure in the Southeast. The project was flagged off on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu by Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, at Ogbunike (33 Nkwelle Junction) along the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway. The event was attended by Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, government officials, and traditional rulers.
The Second Niger Bridge, inaugurated in 2023, was expected to ease movement between the Southeast and other regions. However, incomplete access roads have limited its full impact, forcing many travelers to take longer alternative routes. The newly launched Phase 2B will address this by constructing a 17.5km dual carriageway with seven bridges, modern road infrastructure, and security cameras. The road will stretch from Umunya/Ogbunike on the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway to the Old Enugu Road Interchange, passing through Ogidi, Nkpor-Umuoji Road Interchange, and ending at the Asaba-Igbuzor Road Interchange and Valley Bridge.
The ceremony began with a traditional blessing by Igwe Awkuzu, who prayed for the project’s success.
In his speech, Governor Soludo emphasized that the Second Niger Bridge would remain incomplete until the entire 35km access road was fully constructed. While acknowledging past setbacks, he thanked President Tinubu for prioritizing the road and expressed confidence that with Umahi as Minister of Works, the project would be completed as scheduled. He called on community leaders, PGs, and traditional rulers to ensure local youths do not obstruct construction activities, stressing that cooperation was crucial for timely execution.
During the event, Hon. Chinwe Gwacgam, representing Oyi and Ayamelum Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, urged the federal government to support Soludo’s re-election in 2025, arguing that continuity in leadership would sustain Anambra’s development. He also hinted at possible political alignments in 2027, suggesting that Soludo could reciprocate such support in the future.
The contractor, CGC Nigeria Limited, represented by General Manager Gius Cheng, assured that the project would be completed on schedule and meet the highest quality standards.
With construction now underway, the initiative is expected to ease interstate travel, reduce congestion, and boost economic activities in Anambra and Delta states. The project reflects the federal government’s commitment to infrastructure development and regional economic integration.
