Tinubu delivers historic Bodo-Bonny road, ending dangerous travel — Wike

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has praised President Bola Tinubu for ending decades of dangerous river crossings and costly air travel to Bonny Island in Rivers State with the completion of the Bodo-Bonny Road.

Wike spoke on Thursday during a “thank you” visit to Bonny Local Government Area, following the opening of the 37.8-kilometre Bodo-Bonny Road, which has now provided the first-ever land access to Bonny Island, a key oil and gas hub in the state.

The minister described the project as a long-standing political promise that previous administrations failed to deliver, noting that it took the Tinubu administration’s resolve to bring it to completion.

He also commended the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, for ensuring the successful delivery of the project.

Recalling past experiences, Wike said visiting Bonny for political activities had often been risky due to dependence on river transport or air travel, adding that the new road has brought immense relief and safety to residents and visitors.

He urged the people of Bonny to continue supporting President Tinubu, describing the completion of the road as a clear demonstration of the administration’s commitment to development.

He also advised residents not to be distracted by the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, stressing the importance of unity for continued development.

“In politics, there is always disagreement. What is important is to disagree and agree. When a place is united, you will see the benefits that come to the people,” Wike said.

Earlier, a member representing Degema-Bonny Federal Constituency, Mr Cyril Hart, praised Wike for promoting women inclusion in governance, describing it as one of his enduring legacies.

He recalled Wike’s insistence on having women as vice chairpersons of local government councils in Rivers State, adding that the National Assembly is working on a bill to replicate the initiative nationwide.

Also speaking, the Chairman of Bonny Local Government Council, Mr Abinye Pepple, described Wike as a dependable leader in Rivers politics and commended him for the projects executed in the area during his tenure as governor.

Pepple noted that, for the first time in history, residents can now travel by road from Bonny to Port Harcourt, describing the development as historic.

He thanked President Tinubu for completing the project and pledged political support for the president ahead of the 2027 elections.