Abakaliki: The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, has expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for approving the immediate reconstruction of the Mokwa bridge in Niger. The minister conveyed his appreciation on Saturday during a visit to his Works counterpart, David Umahi.

According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Mokwa bridge was recently washed away due to unprecedented flooding, resulting in the loss of no fewer than 200 lives. The bridge serves as a crucial connection between the northern and southern regions of the country. The reconstruction is estimated to cost N16.7 billion. Minister Umahi mentioned that President Tinubu’s approval for the reconstruction was based on Idris’s request.

Umahi announced that, prior to President Tinubu’s recent travels, he had also approved the reconstruction of the washed-away five-span bridge in Wukari, Taraba State. The president’s decision-making is said to be comprehensive, impacting all geopolitical zones fairly. Additionally, approval has been granted for work to commence on the Lokoja bridge.

The Minister of Works, Umahi, highlighted that a permanent solution is planned for the road between Afikpo, Abia, and Imo, with funds already released for the project. Idris and his team visited Enugu and Ebonyi to inspect Federal Government projects and engage with local communities for feedback.