Minister Announces Final Commissioning Date for All Access Roads, Declares Second Niger Bridge Fully Open.
The Federal Government of Nigeria has today officially declared the Second Niger Bridge project and its extensive network of access roads as 100% complete, with a final commissioning ceremony scheduled for October 1st, 2025. The Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, made the landmark announcement in Asaba this afternoon during a press briefing that followed a final, comprehensive inspection tour of the entire project corridor.
The Minister confirmed that all ancillary infrastructure, which was crucial for the bridge's full functionality, is now complete. This includes the intricate interchange roads on both the Asaba, Delta State, and Onitsha, Anambra State, ends of the bridge. This finalises the N336 billion project, ensuring that motorists can now enjoy a seamless, uninterrupted travel experience from end to end, drastically cutting down the hours previously spent in traffic gridlock on the old bridge.
The completion of this vital piece of national infrastructure is a monumental achievement for the country, particularly for the South-East and South-South geopolitical zones. For decades, the original Niger Bridge, built in 1965, served as a notorious bottleneck that severely hampered economic activity and caused immense frustration for travellers. The new bridge is expected to provide a massive boost to trade and commerce, facilitate the smoother movement of goods and people, and unlock significant investment opportunities across the region.
"This is a promise made and a promise delivered to the Nigerian people," stated Minister Umahi during the briefing. "This bridge is more than just concrete and steel; it is a testament to our resolve to build a more connected and prosperous Nigeria. It stands as a proud symbol of national unity and development." He added that a robust maintenance program is being put in place to preserve the integrity of this critical asset for generations to come.
I'm Adedayo Obadina
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