The Federal Government has announced the temporary opening of the Bodo–Bonny Road to ease movement for residents and travellers during the Christmas and New Year celebrations.
The Minister of Works, David Umahi, disclosed this while representing President Bola Tinubu at an event marking the easing of traffic along the route. He said the project, though faced with years of delays and challenges, had reached a significant milestone due to the patience and cooperation of host communities.
Umahi praised Julius Berger Nigeria Plc for the quality of work on the 35.7-kilometre road, describing it as a legacy project that would improve safety, boost economic activity and make Nigerians proud when completed.
According to him, the temporary opening followed the President’s directive to allow residents of Bodo and Bonny enjoy better access during the festive season, while the final commissioning would take place after full completion.
He said lawmakers, state officials and community leaders were consulted before the decision was taken.
Highlighting the conditions for use, Umahi said, “I know that the Niger Delta people are expecting the President next year, and he is going to come to commission this road for the convenience of the people, the safety of the people, the economic values of the people and Nigeria in general.
”He added that the road would only be open daily from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., with no night travel, no heavy-duty vehicles, and no motorcycles or tricycles allowed, to prevent breakdowns while construction is ongoing.
The minister also commended Julius Berger for improved project delivery, noting that stricter controls would be enforced to ensure safety until the road is fully completed and formally commissioned.
