Second Niger bridge access road: Promise fulfilled or another political gimmick?

DDM News

For decades, the Second Niger Bridge has been one of the most talked-about infrastructure projects in Nigeria.

Diaspora digital media (DDM) revealed that the bridge was envisioned as a solution to the crippling traffic congestion on the first Niger Bridge, which has served as the primary link between the South-East and South-West regions.

The old bridge, built in 1965, has long suffered from wear and tear, making it a safety concern for travelers.

Successive governments have promised to deliver the Second Niger Bridge, but it was not until December 2022 that it was finally opened to motorists.

However, despite the grand commissioning, a major component of the project remained incomplete—the access roads that connect the bridge to major highways.

Without these roads, the bridge remained underutilized, raising concerns that its opening was more about political optics than genuine development.

President Bola Tinubu’s administration recently announced the commencement of a 17.5-kilometer dual carriageway, which will serve as the access road to the Second Niger Bridge.

During the flag-off ceremony, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, who represented the President, described the project as a significant step toward enhancing Nigeria’s road infrastructure.

According to Tinubu, his administration remains committed to national development, with a strong focus on transportation, trade, and economic growth.

He emphasized that good road networks are crucial for ensuring the smooth movement of goods and people, fostering commerce, and creating employment.

The access road, when completed, will link two critical highways—the Asaba-Benin Expressway and the Onitsha-Enugu dual carriageway.

This, he claimed, will improve regional connectivity, boost trade between the South-South and South-East, and reduce travel time for motorists.

Delta State Governor Commends Tinubu’s Commitment

Governor Oborevwori praised President Tinubu for his dedication to infrastructure renewal, highlighting the recent rehabilitation of the Benin-Asaba Expressway.

He pointed out that this highway, alongside the Second Niger Bridge access road, is vital for trade and mobility in the region.

He assured residents that the Delta State government remains committed to supporting federal infrastructure projects, ensuring their timely completion.

Oborevwori urged the contractors and relevant agencies to prioritize quality execution, warning against delays and substandard construction.

Minister of Works Hails Delta’s Infrastructure Drive

Minister of Works, David Umahi, also commended Delta State for its proactive role in road development.

He described Governor Oborevwori as a progressive leader, citing his administration’s efforts to improve infrastructure, stability, and economic growth.

Umahi particularly noted the construction of three major flyovers in Warri, calling them a game-changer for the state’s transportation network.

He further stated that Delta’s investment in federal road projects has eased the burden on the federal government, allowing for more efficient resource allocation.

Project Details and Regional Significance

Engr. Olufunsho Adebiyi, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Works, provided more technical details about the Second Niger Bridge access road.

The Phase 2A Contract in Asaba is expected to serve as a key transportation corridor, linking several Delta communities such as:

Issele-Azagba

Okpanam

Ibusa

Asaba

Okwe

Oko-Amakun

According to Adebiyi, the road is designed to ease traffic congestion, enhance regional connectivity, and stimulate economic activities.

He assured stakeholders that the project would be executed with high engineering standards, meeting the government’s long-term infrastructure goals.

Critics Question the Timing and Execution

Despite the federal government’s assurances, many Nigerians remain skeptical about the true intent behind the project.

Some argue that the Second Niger Bridge access road should have been completed alongside the bridge itself, rather than years later.

Others believe that the delay was politically motivated, as the bridge was hurriedly opened before the 2023 elections to create an impression of progress.

Critics are also concerned about funding transparency, given Nigeria’s history of abandoned and poorly executed road projects.

There have been calls for strict monitoring of the project to prevent cost inflation, contract scams, and substandard work.

Residents in affected communities have also expressed frustration, questioning whether the government will follow through on its promises this time.

Will the Access Road See Timely Completion?

The Second Niger Bridge access road is undeniably an important infrastructure project for Nigeria.

However, past experiences have made many citizens wary of government promises, especially regarding large-scale infrastructure projects.

For this project to succeed, the federal and state governments must ensure strict oversight, transparent funding, and timely completion.

Nigerians will be watching closely to see whether the road becomes another unfinished government promise or a true milestone for regional development.

As the project moves forward, the question remains: Is this a genuine push for progress, or just another political gimmick?

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