Nigerian Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Raji Fashola, has affirmed that the “Loko- Oweto bridge is 200 metres longer than the 2nd Niger Bridge, how many African countries are able to do this? Nigerians should be very proud of this project”.
He made this remark during the pre–inspection of the bridge for commissioning in Nasarawa State . Fashola further remarked “In January I was here to asses the level and progress of work so far done and at the end of March.
According to the statement released by the Ministry, “I am here today when the contractors indicated that they have completed work and all our officers reported it as well, they deserve commendation from Nigerians for the job.”
The Minister said “this is the bridge that crosses river Benue and links the North to the South, adding that “the bridge will reduce travel time, it will reduce travel cost and greatly enhance the ease of doing business”.
Speaking further, Fashola said the report of this working visit to the site of the bridge would be sent to the Presidency where the date of the commissioning of the bridge would then be decided.
While commenting on the Lagos– Ibadan road, the Minister appealed for continuous perseverance and understanding of all road users, as traffic had to be diverted during construction, adding that the road is among the busiest in the country.
He told journalists that the Lagos – Ibadan road would be completed in April of 2023 as planned, in addition, he also said that in May of 2023 the 2nd Niger bridge would be commissioned and opened to the traffic as well.
The Federal Controller of Works Nasarawa State, Mr Idah Daikwo who accompanied the Minister on the inspection of the Loko Oweto bridge said, “the speed of completion and quality of works on the bridge is second to none, I commend the Honourable Minister for this laudable Legacy project”.