The Federal Government of Nigeria has approved a N150bn extension of the Bodo-Bonny Road project in Rivers State, signalling a shift toward what it described as smart, durable and economically impactful infrastructure.
Minister of Works, David Umahi, disclosed the development during a meeting with the management of Nigeria LNG Limited, noting that the project would be executed under a Public-Private Partnership arrangement.
According to a statement issued by the ministry’s Director of Information and Public Relations, Mohammed Ahmed, the project has received presidential approval and will soon be presented to the Federal Executive Council for ratification.
“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 statement read.
“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.”
Umahi explained that the extension would utilise reinforced concrete technology with a lifespan of between 50 and 100 years, significantly reducing maintenance costs compared to traditional road construction.
“We are moving away from conventional methods to technology-driven infrastructure that guarantees durability and long-term value,” he said.
The minister emphasised that the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu remained committed to transparency and accountability, adding that the project would undergo formal approval by the Federal Executive Council.
Beyond the road expansion, Umahi unveiled a broader plan to transform Nigeria’s highways into smart economic corridors equipped with modern safety and monitoring systems.
“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,” he said.
“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 disclosed that the government had approved solar-powered street lighting and large-scale tree planting along major road corridors to enhance security, environmental sustainability, and economic activity.
The minister added that the project design would incorporate rest areas, service stations, and operational hubs, alongside truck parking facilities aimed at easing congestion and improving logistics.
“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 stressed that a strict 12-month completion timeline had been set for the project, with 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.
Meanwhile, Managing Director of Nigeria LNG Limited, Adeleye Falade, highlighted the company’s commitment to innovation and cleaner energy solutions during the meeting.
“Our focus remains on advancing low-carbon solutions that align with Nigeria’s energy transition goals,” Falade said while presenting a model of a compressed natural gas-powered ship.
The Bodo-Bonny Road project is considered a critical link connecting Bonny Island home to major oil and gas assets to the mainland. Its extension, alongside the introduction of smart infrastructure elements, is expected to boost economic activities, improve safety, and strengthen Nigeria’s transport network.
The renewed emphasis on Public-Private Partnerships reflects the government’s strategy to bridge infrastructure gaps by leveraging private sector funding and expertise amid fiscal constraints.