The inauguration was conducted via Zoom, with President Buhari emphasising the importance of the project for the region's development. He noted that the completion of the bridge showcased the government's commitment to delivering prosperity to the Nigerian people.
The president highlighted the positive impact the bridge would have on transport connectivity and the reduction of gridlock, ultimately improving socioeconomic activities in the Southeast.
While expressing his pride in the infrastructure development achieved during his tenure, President Buhari mentioned that he was not consulted before the bridge was named after him. Despite this, he commended the efforts behind the construction of the bridge and its potential to drive economic growth.
Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State also hailed the inauguration, emphasising the bridge's significance in boosting the nation's economy and facilitating ease of doing business between Delta and Anambra states.
The governor, represented by his Chief of Staff, Mr Ovie Agas, emphasised that the bridge would create job opportunities and contribute to economic expansion in the two states.
Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra State expressed his gratitude to President Buhari for fulfilling his campaign promise of completing and delivering the second Niger bridge to the people of the Southeast.
He described the day as historic and a cause for celebration, as the bridge was one of the long-awaited key infrastructural projects in the region. Soludo highlighted the bridge's importance alongside other transformative projects such as the dredging of the River Niger, the Lokoja expressway, the gas pipeline, and the railway line.
Dr Lars Richter, the Managing Director of Julius Berger, the construction company involved in the project, expressed their honour in contributing to the successful completion of the bridge.
He acknowledged the significance of the bridge in improving transportation and enhancing economic growth for the people of Delta and Anambra states.
The second Niger Bridge project has been a longstanding aspiration for the people of the Southeast. Its completion marks a major milestone in the region's infrastructure development, addressing the need for improved connectivity and facilitating trade and commerce between Delta and Anambra states.
The bridge is expected to have a significant positive impact on the economy, creating employment opportunities and stimulating economic growth in the region.
As President Buhari inaugurated the second Niger Bridge, he reaffirmed his administration's commitment to investing in infrastructure to drive Nigeria's economic development.
The completion of this critical infrastructure project serves as a testament to the government's dedication to delivering on its promises and improving the lives of Nigerians.
The bridge will undoubtedly transform the socioeconomic landscape of the Southeast, unlocking new opportunities and driving progress in the region.