ASABA/Nigeria: The challenge of accessing the Second Niger Bridge will soon be alleviated as the Federal Government, on Monday, officially launched the construction of the 17.5km dual carriage access road linking Delta and Anambra States.
In a ceremony attended by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, who represented President Bola Tinubu, the president expressed his administration’s commitment to improving infrastructure, boosting trade, and enhancing connectivity across the nation.
The President emphasized that the construction of the access road was a crucial response to the growing need for improved transportation networks in the country. He stated, “This project is a testament to our commitment to infrastructure that is of vital importance to the entire nation.”
The Second Niger Bridge, which opened to motorists in December 2022, marked a significant milestone in road transportation, improving connectivity between the South East and the rest of Nigeria. President Tinubu highlighted its strategic importance in linking the Asaba-Benin and Onitsha-Enugu dual-carriageways, essential highways for the nation’s trade and commerce.
He further noted that quality transportation networks are key to a thriving economy, citing their role in creating employment opportunities, boosting tourism, and facilitating the free movement of goods and services. “For Nigeria to become a global economic powerhouse, we must upgrade and modernize our infrastructure,” the President added.
As part of the Renewed Hope Agenda, the government is undertaking several major infrastructure projects, including the multi-billion-naira Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road, aimed at improving rural-urban integration and fostering economic development. The President commended the cooperative efforts of Delta and Anambra States for their support in advancing these projects.
Governor Oborevwori, in his remarks, praised President Tinubu for his unwavering dedication to national infrastructure renewal. He pointed out that the construction of the access road to the Second Niger Bridge and the recent concessioning of the Benin-Asaba Expressway were crucial steps toward enhancing trade and commerce, particularly between the South-South and South-East regions.
“These roads are critical for the economic well-being of our people,” Oborevwori said, expressing gratitude for the President’s leadership. “On behalf of the government and the people of Delta State, we celebrate Mr. President’s commitment to our national development.”
Minister of Works, David Umahi, lauded Governor Oborevwori’s support for the federal government, particularly his proactive approach to federal road projects in Delta State. Umahi highlighted the Governor’s progress on significant infrastructure, including the construction of flyovers in Warri, and his consistent efforts to ease the burden on the federal government’s infrastructure initiatives.
“The quality and scope of the projects in Delta are commendable, and I am proud of the progress being made under Governor Oborevwori’s leadership,” said Umahi.
Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Works, Engr. Olufunsho Adebiyi, outlined the strategic significance of the new access road, which will connect communities in Delta State, including Issele-Azagba, Okpanam, Ibusa, and Asaba, before linking the Second Niger Bridge. This development will not only enhance regional connectivity but will also contribute to reducing congestion on existing road networks.
The access road is expected to play a vital role in boosting economic activities and supporting sustainable development in the region, offering hope for improved mobility and commerce across the South-South and South-East geopolitical zones.
