The Senate Committee on Works recently conducted an oversight visit to the Bodo-Bonny Road project in Rivers State, expressing satisfaction with the progress achieved thus far. The 35.7km road, a crucial link between mainland communities and Bonny Island, is being constructed by Julius Berger Nigeria PLC. Committee Chairman, Senator Barinada Mpigi, acknowledged the advancements made but stressed the need for the contractor to expedite the remaining work to meet the project deadline. While commending Julius Berger’s reputation as a construction giant, Senator Mpigi emphasized the government’s fulfillment of its financial obligations and urged the company to reciprocate by delivering the project on time. The committee pledged continuous monitoring to ensure the project stays on track and achieves its intended completion date.
The Bodo-Bonny Road project, initiated in 2014, has encountered significant challenges due to the unique and difficult terrain. The area’s swampy soil and tidal movements have presented considerable obstacles to construction efforts. However, despite these hurdles, five kilometers of the road have been asphalted, and several major bridges have been completed, enhancing connectivity in the region. The Senate committee directed Julius Berger to prioritize the asphalting work and aim for completion before the end of the year. A progress review is scheduled for September, with subsequent regular monitoring visits planned to ensure the project’s timely completion. The committee recognized the complexity of the project, acknowledging the distinct construction conditions compared to other regions.
Dr. Peer Lubasch, Managing Director of Julius Berger, accompanied the lawmakers during their inspection and provided assurances that the road will be completed by December, contingent on adequate and timely financing. He explained that the slow pace of construction was primarily due to the need to allow the soil to settle appropriately in the low-lying, marshy, and swampy environment, further exacerbated by tidal movements. Despite these challenges, Dr. Lubasch highlighted the significant progress already achieved, with a reasonable stretch of the road asphalted and accessible to vehicles traveling to and from the mainland and island. The completion of critical bridges linking the mainland and Bonny Island represents another important milestone.
The Bodo-Bonny Road project comprises thirteen bridges, including three main bridges, nine mini-bridges, and one bridge over a pipeline. This 35.7km road will be the first to connect the oil-rich Bonny Island to mainland Rivers State, traversing four local government areas. The project, a tripartite agreement between the Federal Government, the Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG), and Julius Berger Nigeria PLC, involves constructing mini-bridges with a span of 23 meters each, two creek bridges – the Afa Creek Bridge (approximately 530m long) and the Nanabie Creek Bridge (approximately 640m long) – and a major river bridge spanning approximately 750m over the Opobo Channel.
The completion of this vital infrastructure is anticipated to significantly boost economic opportunities in the region, facilitating easier transportation for residents and improving access to crucial oil and gas facilities located on Bonny Island. The road will not only connect communities but will also serve as a catalyst for economic development, facilitating the movement of goods and services, and opening up new possibilities for trade and commerce. Moreover, it will enhance the accessibility of critical oil and gas infrastructure, contributing to the growth and efficiency of the energy sector.
Looking ahead, the Senate Committee’s continued oversight and regular monitoring visits will be crucial to ensuring the project’s timely completion. The collaboration between the government, NLNG, and Julius Berger, coupled with the contractor’s commitment to addressing the unique challenges posed by the terrain, promises the successful delivery of this significant infrastructure project. Ultimately, the Bodo-Bonny Road will not only improve connectivity and stimulate economic growth but also enhance the quality of life for the communities it serves. The road’s completion will mark a significant step towards unlocking the full potential of the region and strengthening its contribution to the national economy.
