The Senate Committee on Works has commended the ongoing construction of the Bodo-Bonny Road in Rivers State, expressing satisfaction with the level of work done so far. However, the committee has urged the contractor, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, to intensify efforts and ensure project completion by December.
Chairman of the committee, Senator Barinada Mpigi, led members on an oversight visit to the 35.7km project site over the weekend. He acknowledged visible progress, including asphalted sections and completed bridges, but emphasized the need for speed.
“We are happy with the progress, but we expect more from Julius Berger, a company known for excellence,” Mpigi said. “The Federal Government has met its obligations. Now, it is time for delivery.”
The Bodo-Bonny Road, flagged off in 2014, has faced delays due to challenging terrain, including swampy soils and tidal movements. Despite this, five kilometres have been asphalted, and major bridges have been completed, enhancing regional connectivity.
The committee directed Julius Berger to complete asphalting before year-end and scheduled a progress review for September. “We will continue to monitor every stage of this project until it is delivered,” Mpigi affirmed.
Senator Patrick Ndubueze, another committee member, highlighted the project’s complexity, comparing it to construction in other parts of the country: “Construction here is not the same as in the South-East.”
Responding, Julius Berger’s Managing Director, Engr. Dr. Peer Lubasch, assured lawmakers of the company’s commitment to the December target—provided funding remains consistent. He cited the need for soil stabilization due to the area’s marshy and tidal conditions but noted that the road is already motorable, with key bridges completed.
The Bodo-Bonny Road features 13 bridges: three main bridges, nine mini bridges, and one spanning a pipeline. It is the first road to directly connect Bonny Island to the Rivers State mainland, crossing four local government areas. The project is a collaboration between the Federal Government, Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG), and Julius Berger.
When completed, the road is expected to boost economic activity, improve mobility for residents, and strengthen access to oil and gas facilities on Bonny Island.
