Senator Jibrin Isha Echocho, representing Kogi East at the National Assembly, has commended the Federal Government’s decision to commence work on the Shintaku-Lokoja bridge.
This development follows a recent agreement between the Federal Government of Nigeria and Julius Berger Plc on alternative financing structures for the construction of the Lokoja-Shintaku Bridge in Kogi State.
The agreement was reached during a meeting at the Minister of Works’ office in Mabushi District, Abuja. The meeting included Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, Julius Berger Plc’s business development strategist Filipe Nuno Lopes, and development partners Deutsche Bank, represented by Humaya Harati and Andreas Voss.
Minister Umahi stated that this step is part of the ministry’s strategy to address the funding gap in road infrastructure. He expressed confidence that the project would be successful due to the firm’s strong financing capacity, strategic relationships, and extensive experience in arranging financing for projects across the African continent.
Senator Echocho expressed profound excitement over the commencement of the bridge construction, describing it as the fulfillment of a long-standing aspiration. He emphasized the transformative impact the bridge would have on the North-Central region, enabling seamless integration and connectivity for communities previously divided by the river.
“This is a lifetime fulfillment for me. With work commencing on this bridge, I stand in fulfilled accomplishment because this has been an age-long desire to see a bridge across the Shintaku River, cementing the integration of my people of Kogi East,” the Kogi East Senator remarked.
The Shintaku-Lokoja bridge project is poised not only to enhance regional connectivity but also to unlock significant economic potential in the area. Senator Isah highlighted its role in facilitating easier movement of goods and people, thereby boosting trade and commerce within Kogi East and beyond.
Praising the initiative, Senator Ishah applauded President Bola Tinubu for catalyzing the construction of the bridge, underscoring its strategic importance for economic growth and development. He also commended Governor Usman Ahmed Ododo for his proactive advocacy and leadership in advancing the project, describing the governor’s efforts as visionary and exemplary.
The construction of the Shintaku-Lokoja bridge is expected to usher in a new era of socio-economic advancement for Kogi State, promoting regional integration, fostering economic resilience, and improving the overall quality of life for residents.
As progress continues, stakeholders anticipate that the bridge will serve as a symbol of connectivity and progress, reinforcing infrastructure development as a cornerstone of sustainable growth in Nigeria’s heartland.
