FCT Minister Hails Completion of Port Harcourt–Bonny Road

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has commended the Federal Government for the completion of the Port Harcourt–Bonny Road, describing it as a major milestone in infrastructure delivery.

Wike expressed his appreciation during a thank-you visit to Bonny Local Government Area of Rivers State, where he said the project had transformed decades of political promises into tangible reality.

He described the long-awaited road as a defining symbol of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to inclusive development and improved connectivity for oil-producing communities in the Niger Delta.

According to him, “We felt that, as people who appreciate support and loyalty, it was important for us to come here to say thank you to the people of Bonny for what you have done.”

While recalling the 2023 general elections, the Minister noted that supporting President Tinubu at the time was a difficult and risky decision, but one that has now been vindicated.

“In 2023, it was not easy when we decided to support our President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu. We did not fully understand the risks involved then, but today I thank God that the decision turned out to be the right one,” he said.

He added that, the people of Bonny stood firm despite uncertainties, stressing that there was no written agreement between him and the President.

“The only agreement was his assurance: ‘Go and support us, and your support will not be in vain,” he stated.

He described the Bodo–Bonny Road as a project that had remained a recurring political promise for decades, with successive governments failing to deliver.

“Every government came and went, and the story was always the same: We will do the Bodo–Bonny Road. I prayed quietly to God that in our time, we would finally travel on this road,” Wike said.

The former Rivers State Governor also hinted that he deliberately avoided putting pressure on President Tinubu, choosing instead to wait patiently as progress reports were presented to the Federal Executive Council.

“I told myself, I don’t want explanations; I just want us to drive on the road,” he added.

Wike, then commended the Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, for ensuring that the President’s vision was delivered.

“Today, that dream is no longer a promise; it is something we can all see and experience,” he said.

He further disclosed that past visits to Bonny were often stressful and risky, with many politicians accessing the area only by helicopter.

“In the past, we would come here for campaigns and say, My brother, this is difficult. Many of us only saw Bonny from a helicopter. But today, we arrived by road, and I said, ‘God be glorified,” Wike declared.

Describing the road as more than just infrastructure, Wike said it represents economic opportunity, connectivity and hope for the people.

“This is not just a road; it is a workplace, a lifeline, and a symbol that God’s time has truly come.

“What you can see with your own eyes is better than any prophecy or political argument,” he added.

Wike questioned why the people of Bonny would not support President Tinubu, noting that the road alone was sufficient proof of purposeful leadership.

“Even if nothing else were done, this road speaks volumes. It is a major project executed by one of the world’s leading construction firms,” he said.

The minister also commended the unity and loyalty of political, traditional and community leaders in Bonny, noting that unity remains the foundation of development.

“In politics, disagreements will always exist. What matters is the ability to agree to disagree and still move forward together. Unity brings development,” he stated.

Wike assured the people that he would personally convey their appreciation to President Tinubu, hinting that their support would be rewarded politically.

“I will take this message back to Mr. President that the good people of Bonny are very happy with him. If you wait and see what will happen in 2027, you will understand why today is important,” he said.

He urged continued cooperation among leaders and residents to attract more development to the area, pledging not to disappoint the people.

“I will not disappoint you, because you have shown me love and trust. Anyone from Bonny who supports progress deserves recognition and appreciation,” Wike added.