The Federal Government has approved major road expansions across Nigeria, including an 8.7-kilometre extension of the Bodo–Bonny Road in the Niger Delta and the construction of the Akwanga–Jos–Bauchi–Gombe–Maiduguri corridor.
Minister of Works, David Umahi, disclosed this during a press briefing at the Ministry of Works in Abuja. He described the approvals as part of President Bola Tinubu’s directive to accelerate critical road projects nationwide.
“Yesterday, the President graciously directed that the Ministry of Works should extend the Bodo–Bonny Road by 8.7 kilometres using reinforced concrete up to the East–West Road. In addition, he approved the construction of the Akwanga–Jos–Bauchi–Gombe–Maiduguri road to improve connectivity across the North-Central, North-East and Northern regions,” Umahi said.
According to him, the Bodo–Bonny Road extension will enhance access to coastal communities, promote trade and strengthen integration within Rivers State and the wider South-South region.
“The President did not stop any inherited project. He directed the continuation of all projects and also approved extensions where they are critical to national development,” the minister added.
Umahi stressed that the administration is prioritising durable infrastructure through the use of reinforced concrete technology, which he said would ensure roads last between 50 and 100 years.
“The roads we are building now will last between 50 and 100 years. Nigerians deserve infrastructure that is durable, safe and reliable,” he said.
On the northern corridor, Umahi explained that the Akwanga–Jos–Bauchi–Gombe–Maiduguri highway is strategic for national integration, linking major commercial, agricultural and industrial hubs.
“This corridor is strategic for national integration. Work will start simultaneously at multiple points, including Akwanga, Bauchi, Gombe and Maiduguri, to accelerate completion and maximise socio-economic benefits,” he said.
Construction on both projects is expected to commence in March. The ministry assured that work would adhere to modern standards to guarantee safety, durability and value for money.
Umahi noted that the projects are part of the administration’s broader legacy infrastructure programme aimed at modernising Nigeria’s road network, attracting investment and strengthening national cohesion.
He also said the government remains committed to sustaining and expanding inherited projects despite fiscal constraints.
“The President inherited a very poor state of roads and bridges, yet he has continued these projects and even extended some of them. That demonstrates a firm commitment to national development,” Umahi said.
The Bodo–Bonny extension is expected to connect coastal communities directly to the East–West Road, a key transport corridor serving major oil and gas hubs. Meanwhile, the Akwanga–Jos–Bauchi–Gombe–Maiduguri highway is projected to improve security, enhance agricultural and commercial activities, and expand access to markets across the North-East.
