Mokwa Bridge gets N16.7bn lifeline from Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu has approved the immediate release of N16.7 billion for the reconstruction of the Mokwa Bridge in Niger State, which was destroyed by severe flooding in May 2025.

The approval was announced on Saturday by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, during a visit to Abakaliki as part of a federal delegation touring infrastructure projects and citizen engagement programmes in the South-East.

Idris said the decision underscores the Tinubu administration’s swift response to national infrastructure emergencies. “This bridge is vital for regional connectivity and economic activity,” he noted. “We approached Mr. President, and he graciously approved the N16.7bn needed to rebuild the 10-span bridge. It’s a major relief to the people of Niger State.”

According to a statement released by his media aide, Rabiu Ibrahim, the minister praised the proactive role of the Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, who promptly dispatched engineers to assess the damage soon after the disaster occurred.

“This development is music to the ears of the people. The speed of response reflects the government’s commitment to infrastructure recovery and national cohesion,” Idris added.

In his own remarks, Umahi described Tinubu as “a compassionate and attentive leader” who is fully committed to rebuilding critical infrastructure across all regions of the country.

He also listed other recent presidential approvals for bridge and road reconstructions in multiple states, including: a 5-span bridge in Wukari, Taraba, the Lokoja Bridge, the damaged section of Afikpo Road (Ebonyi to Abia and Imo), the Keffi Flyover Bridge, Jebba Bridge in Kwara, seven bridges in Edo State and a bridge in Kebbi State

These projects, Umahi said, are part of a balanced and inclusive national development strategy.