FG Advances Niger Delta Connectivity As Senator Mpigi, Umahi Lead Opening Of Bodo–Bonny Road Corridor
The Federal Government on Monday achieved a key breakthrough in its effort to strengthen infrastructure and economic integration in the Niger Delta, with the temporary opening of the Bodo–Bonny Road and bridges spanning the Opobo Channel in Rivers State.
The milestone event was led by the Honourable Minister of Works, Senator Engr. Dave Umahi, accompanied by a high-powered delegation from the National Assembly.
At the centre of the federal oversight mission was Senator Mpigi Barinada, representing Rivers South East and serving as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works.
Senator Mpigi led members of the Joint National Assembly Committee on Works to assess progress on what has become one of the most ambitious and transformative road projects in the region.
He also serves as Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Oil and Gas Host Communities and Secretary of the Southern Senators Forum.
The Secretary to the Rivers State Government, Mr. Benibo Anabrabra, who represented Governor Siminalayi Fubara, conveyed the state government’s strong support for the project, describing it as critical to regional development and improved mobility.
The Bodo–Bonny Road, a Federal Government flagship infrastructure investment, is designed to establish the first-ever permanent land route between Bodo on the mainland and Bonny Island—host to the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) complex and several major oil and gas installations.
The road, when completed, is expected to drastically reduce travel time, cut transport costs, and boost socio-economic activities across host communities and the wider Niger Delta.
Speaking during the inspection, Senator Mpigi said the temporary opening “demonstrates the administration’s unwavering resolve to deliver durable, high-quality infrastructure within set timelines.”
He reiterated the commitment of the National Assembly to sustained oversight, ensuring contractors uphold global engineering standards.
The delegation also visited the Aleto Bridge project, being handled by Reynolds Construction Company (RCC).
Senator Mpigi charged the contractors to accelerate work while maintaining impeccable standards, stressing that the suffering experienced by road users must be brought to an end.
Among dignitaries present were the Chairman of the House Committee on Works, Rt. Hon. Akin Alabi; Senator Osita Ngwu of Enugu West; Mr. Edward Deekae; and several other senior government officials. The event marks another decisive step toward the long-awaited completion of the Bodo – Bonny corridor — an engineering feat expected to reshape transportation, commerce, and investment opportunities across Rivers State and beyond.
