Second Niger Bridge: A Boon for National Development, NSIA
By Patience Ikpeme
The completion and official handover of the Second Niger Bridge marks a turning point in Nigeria’s infrastructure landscape, according to the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA). Acting as both the funder and project manager, the NSIA expressed immense pride in its role and the transformative impact this project will have on the nation.
“The completion of the Second Niger Bridge perfectly aligns with NSIA’s overarching objective to stimulate socio-economic development in Nigeria by developing critical infrastructure of national significance,” remarked Aminu Umar-Sadiq, Managing Director and CEO of NSIA.
He further emphasized, “This project embodies the trust reposed in NSIA by the Presidency and reflects our unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality projects that benefit all Nigerians.”
Echoing these sentiments, the Minister of Works, Mr. David Umahi, conveyed the federal government’s satisfaction with the completed bridge. “The Second Niger Bridge is impeccable, aesthetically pleasing, and meticulously constructed,” he stated, highlighting the exceptional quality and design.
The Second Niger Bridge, a vital link connecting Southeastern Nigeria to other regions, was implemented through the Presidential Infrastructure Development Fund (PIDF), with NSIA assuming the dual role of Fund and Project Manager.
The scope of this project involved the construction of: A 1.6km concrete box-girder bridge over the River Niger; Two (2) secondary bridges at Amakon Village Road and Atani Road, each measuring 21.7 meters; A new cloverleaf interchange at Onitsha – Owerri Road and 10.3km approach roads linking Asaba, Delta State and Onitsha, Anambra State.
Furthermore, a temporary link road, approximately 2.4km long, was constructed from the Asaba end of the bridge to the Benin-Asaba dual carriageway, facilitating immediate bridge operation until the completion of the two 17.5km approach roads.
Established in 2018, the PIDF represents a Presidential initiative aimed at accelerating critical and strategic infrastructure projects to catalyze socio-economic advancement across Nigeria. Projects under the PIDF purview include the Second Niger Bridge, Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, and Abuja-Kano Road.
The Second Niger Bridge is anticipated to significantly alleviate traffic congestion on the existing bridge, resulting in reduced travel time and associated costs for commuters and businesses. Moreover, it will foster improved connectivity between the eastern and western regions of the country, thereby stimulating economic growth and integration.
NSIA emphasized that its successful completion of this project underscores its unwavering commitment to driving sustainable development in Nigeria. By leveraging its expertise and utilizing public funds responsibly, NSIA has delivered a critical infrastructure project that will yield significant benefits for generations to come.