President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the immediate release of ₦16.7 billion for the reconstruction of the Mokwa Bridge in Niger State, which collapsed in May following heavy flooding.
The approval was announced on Saturday in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, after a joint briefing with the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi.
Idris explained that the decision reflects the President’s swift response to urgent infrastructure needs, stressing that the bridge is a vital 10-span link connecting the North to the South-West.
“We want to thank Mr. President for his responsiveness. He has graciously approved ₦16.7 billion for the reconstruction of the Mokwa Bridge. This means a lot to the people,” Idris said.
The bridge’s collapse during torrential rains had cut off a key transport route, leaving travellers stranded and worsening economic hardship for commuters and traders. Viral videos of people wading through floodwaters at the site had sparked public outrage over neglect of critical infrastructure.
Umahi confirmed that President Tinubu gave immediate approval following his ministry’s assessment of the damage. He also disclosed that the Federal Government had recently approved rehabilitation works for several other bridges destroyed by floods across the country, including those in Taraba, Kogi, Abia, Imo, Edo, Kebbi, and Kwara States.
Idris described the latest intervention as “music to the ears” of residents of Niger State and Nigerians who rely on the route for trade and travel.
