The Abuja-Lokoja road, a major link between the north and south of Nigeria, has been experiencing severe flooding that has caused traffic gridlock and stranded many commuters. The flood, which started on Monday, has submerged the new bridge under construction around Kotonkarfe town in Kogi State.
Many motorists and other road users have been held up for several hours, some even for days, as they try to cross the flooded section of the road. Some have resorted to using boats and motorcycles, which charge exorbitant fares, to navigate the waterlogged area.
The flood has also affected the livelihoods of traders and farmers who rely on the road to transport their goods and produce. Some have lamented the loss of their perishable items due to the delay and spoilage.
In response to the situation, the Minister of Works, David Umahi, visited the site on Tuesday, accompanied by the Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, and some directors in the ministry. He announced that the federal government would construct a flyover as a permanent solution to end the perennial flooding on the Abuja-Lokoja highway.
According to Umahi, the flyover would span 1.6 kilometres and consist of five segments that would rise above the flood level. He said he would submit a proposal to President Bola Tinubu for approval and urged the contractors handling the road project to use concrete for durability.
He also praised President Tinubu for his commitment to providing critical infrastructure that would serve the people better than palliatives. He expressed confidence that he would deliver concrete roads across the country as part of the Renewed Hope project of the administration.
Bello, on his part, commended Umahi for choosing to visit Kogi State as his first field assignment and pledged to give all necessary support to him and the contractors. He also thanked President Tinubu for appointing Umahi as Minister of Works, describing him as a “field man” who would deliver on his mandate.
