The completed 2nd Niger Bridge has been officially handed over to the Federal Government, emphasizing the necessity for vigilant supervision of road projects. The Minister of Works, David Umahi, accepted the project and ancillary facilities from the contractor, Julius Berger Nigeria (JBN) Plc, during a handover ceremony at the 2nd Niger Bridge toll station on December 3, 2023,leadership reports.
In a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Minister, Barr. Orji Uchenna Orji, the government reaffirmed its commitment to delivering enduring road infrastructure meeting global standards. Minister Umahi expressed satisfaction with the completed works, acknowledging the efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration and the contributions of former President Muhammadu Buhari and ex-Minister of Works, Babatunde Raji Fashola.
Umahi commended the impeccable beauty and quality of the job, highlighting President’s initiatives on road infrastructure. He outlined plans to install solar-powered lighting along the project, complete the two interchanges, enhance security with CCTV cameras, and potentially concession the project through the HDMI program.
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The Minister emphasized the importance of fully completing the interchanges to consider the project concluded, proposing Julius Berger and RCC for the tasks. He also mentioned the possibility of concessioning to an investor willing to fund the interchanges under the HDMI program, facilitating the establishment of service stations, hotels, restaurants, and other facilities.
While the Federal Government assumes control of the 2nd Niger Bridge, the contractor remains liable within the defect liability period. Toll activation is contingent on fixing the two interchanges. The Director of Bridge Design and Construction, Engr. Obioha, thanked the government and urged the public to adhere to road rules.
Dr. Las Ritcher, Managing Director of Julius Berger Nigeria (JBN) Plc, clarified the technical handover necessity and expressed confidence in Minister Umahi’s satisfaction with the quality of work. The contract with Julius Berger includes the 2nd Niger Bridge construction and the access road from the existing Benin-Asaba Expressway.
During an inspection, the Minister visited the project site of CGG Nig. Ltd for the Rehabilitation of Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway Section 111: Enugu-Lokpanta 61.15 km road. Additionally, he assessed the collapsed New Artisan bridge along the Enugu-PH Expressway, where ongoing works are expected to be completed promptly.
