President Bola Tinubu has opened the Bodo–Bonny Road for temporary public use, marking a major step toward improving access for residents of Bonny Kingdom and surrounding Ogoni communities in Rivers State.

The 37.9-kilometre road, which has reached 90.98 percent completion, is expected to significantly cut the reliance on boats and expensive helicopter services that have long been the only means of travel for many residents.

Long-Awaited Milestone

The multi-billion naira project was originally awarded on December 11, 2014, but progress stalled for years before being revived on October 20, 2017, by Julius Berger Nigeria Plc. It has now become one of the most celebrated infrastructure achievements under Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Speaking on behalf of the President during the inaugural ceremony held at both the Bodo and Bonny ends of the project, the Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, said the road represents a dream becoming reality for communities that have endured decades of travel challenges.

According to Umahi, quoting the President, “The dream of the Bonny Kingdom has come true; the dream of the Bodo Kingdom has come true. No more risky journeys through the busy Bonny River, no more expensive helicopters, no more untold hardships to reach this blessed island.”

Temporary Opening Rules

For now, only small vehicles are permitted on the road for daily use between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Heavy-duty trucks, motorcycles, and tricycles remain restricted until the entire project is completed, with final handover expected by March 2026.

Transport experts say even partial access will begin transforming local economies as trade and daily movement become easier. Some residents at the inauguration expressed relief, noting that faster road travel could reduce transport costs and improve access to schools and healthcare.

Government Credits Project Partners

President Tinubu used the event to commend Julius Berger for pushing through engineering, environmental, and security obstacles. He made special mention of the Project Manager, identified as Engineer Tim.

“I have made a commendation to Julius Berger especially Engineer Tim. I think if Engineer Tim was the Managing Director of Julius Berger we wouldn’t have had all the fights we had in so many places,” he said, drawing applause from attendees.

Industry observers note that completion of the Bodo–Bonny link is also vital for oil and gas operations in the Niger Delta, as Bonny Island hosts major facilities including NLNG. Economic analysts expect increased investment once full access becomes available.

Looking Ahead

Local leaders have urged the Federal Government to maintain funding momentum to ensure the project reaches full completion as scheduled. They say completing the road would permanently end the isolation faced by one of Nigeria’s most strategic coastal communities.

Residents hope the new route will become a symbol of renewed opportunity across the region.