Julius Berger Nigeria Plc has completed the 37.9-kilometre Bodo–Bonny Road project in Rivers State within the approved budget, despite challenging swampy terrain and difficult construction conditions.
The project, which began on 20 October 2017, is the first road link connecting Bonny Island to the mainland of Rivers State, marking a major milestone in infrastructure development in the Niger Delta region.
Project officials confirmed that while major construction has been completed, minor finishing works such as tree planting, installation of streetlights, and final bridge joint adjustments are still ongoing. These remaining tasks are expected to be concluded within weeks.
According to the project management team, savings from the original contract have been redirected toward additional enhancements, including street lighting and beautification works, without increasing the overall cost to government.
The Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, had earlier directed that the road be opened for partial use by the end of November 2025, while full commissioning is expected at a later date.
He noted that the project cost, estimated at about ₦7.4 billion per kilometre, was reasonable given the difficult coastal terrain, which required extensive engineering solutions including dredging, soil stabilisation, and specialised bridge construction techniques.
The project includes multiple engineering components such as a 37.9-kilometre highway, culverts, two mini bridges, and two creek bridges designed to withstand tidal and swamp conditions.
Funding for the project was supported through a public-private arrangement involving the federal government and the Nigeria LNG Limited, which contributed 50 percent of the financing.
Authorities also revealed that additional features such as solar-powered streetlights, CCTV installations, and landscaping will be funded through contingency provisions without extra government spending.
The federal government has also approved Phase Two of the project, with officials indicating that preparatory work for expansion is expected to begin shortly.
Officials describe the road as a strategic infrastructure asset that will improve connectivity, boost commerce, and reduce isolation of coastal communities in the Niger Delta region.
