ABUJA, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)-The Federal Government has launched a fresh drive for what it described as “smart, durable and economically impactful infrastructure,” following the approval of a N150bn extension of the Bodo-Bonny Road project in Rivers State under a Public-Private Partnership arrangement.
The Minister of Works, David Umahi, disclosed this during a meeting with the management of Nigeria LNG Limited, noting that the initiative signals a shift from traditional road construction to long-lasting, technology-driven infrastructure.
According to a statement issued on Thursday by the ministry’s Director of Information and Public Relations, Mohammed Ahmed, the project has already received presidential approval and will soon be presented to the Federal Executive Council for ratification.
Umahi explained that the extension of the Bodo-Bonny Road would be constructed using reinforced concrete technology designed to last between 50 and 100 years, thereby significantly reducing maintenance costs.
READ ALSO:FG Commences Payment Of Doctors Arrears
The statement read, “The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to delivering durable, innovative, and economically impactful infrastructure across Nigeria, following key approvals and policy directions aimed at accelerating national development.
“The President has approved the commencement of an extension of the recently completed Bodo-Bonny Road and Bridges Project in Rivers State to be executed under a Public-Private Partnership arrangement, with an estimated cost of about N150bn.
The project is expected to incorporate modern engineering solutions, including the use of concrete technology to ensure long-term durability and minimal maintenance over a lifespan of 50 to 100 years.
“This project is not just about building a road. It is about delivering infrastructure that will stand the test of time, reduce maintenance burden, and provide lasting economic value to Nigerians.”
The minister stressed that the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains committed to transparency, adding that the project will undergo formal approval by the Federal Executive Council.
Beyond the road extension, Umahi unveiled a broader plan to transform Nigeria’s highways into smart economic corridors by integrating safety measures, environmental sustainability, and digital monitoring systems.
He revealed that the government has approved the installation of solar-powered street lighting and large-scale tree planting along major road corridors to improve visibility, boost security, and stimulate economic activities in host communities.
“In addition to improving visibility and safety at night, these initiatives will beautify the corridors and create a more conducive environment for businesses to thrive,” he said.
Umahi also announced plans to deploy Closed-Circuit Television cameras along major highways, supported by monitoring centres, to significantly enhance emergency response capabilities.
He said, “We are introducing CCTV surveillance systems along key highways with strategically located monitoring centres. This will enable us to respond to emergencies in less than 10 minutes, which is a major leap in road safety and security management in Nigeria.”
To further improve highway operations, the minister said the project design would include rest areas, service stations, and operational hubs for maintenance and monitoring.
He added that contractors have been directed to reinvest cost savings into value-enhancing components such as solar lighting and landscaping.
In a bid to reduce congestion and improve logistics, the government also plans to incorporate truck parking facilities along the corridor, with ongoing discussions with host communities to secure land.
“We are deliberately integrating truck parks into our road design to address congestion and improve logistics efficiency. Engagement with host communities is ongoing to ensure smooth implementation,” Umahi stated.
He emphasised that the government has set a strict 12-month completion timeline for the project, alongside firm measures to prevent cost overruns.
“This administration is serious about efficiency and accountability. We have set a clear delivery timeline of not more than 12 months from the date of award, and there will be no room for cost variation,” he said.
The minister described the current infrastructure drive as unprecedented, noting that the focus has shifted from simply building roads to delivering world-class assets that drive economic growth.
“We are not just building roads; we are building infrastructure that enhances safety, supports economic development, and improves the quality of life of Nigerians,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Managing Director of Nigeria LNG Limited, Adeleye Falade, highlighted the company’s commitment to innovation and cleaner energy during the meeting.
Falade presented a model of a Compressed Natural Gas-powered ship to the minister, showcasing efforts to promote low-carbon solutions in Nigeria’s transport and maritime sectors.
The meeting also explored potential collaboration between the government and NLNG in advancing sustainable infrastructure development.
The Bodo-Bonny Road project has long been regarded as a critical link connecting Bonny Island, home to key oil and gas assets including NLNG, to the mainland in Rivers State.
For decades, the lack of a reliable road network restricted economic activities, forcing reliance on waterways for the movement of people and goods.
The extension and upgrade of the road, combined with smart infrastructure features such as CCTV, solar lighting, and truck parks, reflect a broader policy shift towards integrated transport systems that prioritise durability, safety, and economic efficiency.
The renewed emphasis on Public-Private Partnerships is also seen as part of the Federal Government’s strategy to bridge Nigeria’s infrastructure gap amid fiscal constraints, while leveraging private sector expertise and funding.
With the latest approvals, stakeholders say the government is seeking to redefine how infrastructure is conceived, delivered, and sustained across the country.