President Bola Tinubu has ordered the immediate release of N16.7 billion for the reconstruction of the Mokwa Bridge in Niger State, which collapsed after heavy flooding in May.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, who disclosed this in Abakaliki on Saturday during a tour of federal projects in the South-East, said the approval underscores the administration’s commitment to swiftly addressing critical infrastructure challenges.
“We want to thank Mr President for this timely intervention. He graciously approved N16.7 billion for the reconstruction of this 10-span bridge after we presented the request. It means a lot to the people of Niger State and Nigerians who rely on that corridor,” Idris said in a statement issued through his media aide, Rabiu Ibrahim.
Idris highlighted the strategic importance of the bridge, pointing out that it connects several states and facilitates movement of goods and services across the country.
He also praised the Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, for rapidly deploying engineers to assess the damage shortly after the collapse.
“His response was immediate and decisive; this approval is indeed music to the ears of the people,” the minister added.
On his part, Umahi described Tinubu as a “compassionate and listening leader” who is determined to respond to Nigerians’ infrastructural needs without delay.
“The President approved the urgent reconstruction of the bridge. His decision reflects his passion for infrastructure development across all zones,” Umahi said.
The Works Minister further listed other recent approvals, including the rebuilding of a washed-away bridge in Wukari, Taraba State; repair of Lokoja Bridge; fixing of the Afikpo Road section linking Ebonyi to Abia and Imo; reconstruction of the Keffi Flyover; rehabilitation of Jebba Bridge in Kwara; seven bridges in Edo; and another bridge project in Kebbi State.
