Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has publicly commended President Bola Tinubu for a landmark achievement in infrastructure: the completion of the long-awaited Bodo-Bonny Road. This crucial project has finally put an end to decades of dangerous and tide-dependent boat travel to Bonny Island, a major nerve centre for Nigeria's oil and gas industry.
A Promise Finally Fulfilled After Decades
Speaking on Thursday, January 8, 2026, during a special "thank you" visit to Bonny Local Government Area in Rivers State, Wike described the 37.8-kilometre road as a political promise that had eluded many previous governments. He credited the Tinubu administration for taking the decisive and bold step to see the project through to completion, allowing it to now be fully open to vehicular traffic.
"Before now, whenever we wanted to come to Bonny, even for political campaigns, the first question was always, 'How is the tide?'" Wike recounted, highlighting the perennial challenge. "Even when travelling by helicopter, I would look at the ocean and pray for a safe return. But today, as we drove in, I said, 'God be glorified.'"
Political Unity and Development for Bonny
The FCT Minister urged the people of Bonny to remain focused on development despite the ongoing political disagreements in Rivers State. He emphasized that unity among local leaders was key to attracting more benefits from the federal government. "What matters is the ability to disagree and still agree. When there is unity, the benefits will come," Wike stated.
He directly linked the historic project to political support, asking, "With this, tell me why Bonny people will not support Mr President. God's time is the best, and God's time has come for Bonny. You will continue to benefit from the Tinubu administration." Wike also praised the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, for his role in realizing the President's vision for the road.
Local Leaders Echo Praise and Promise Support
The event also featured commendations from local representatives. Mr. Cyril Hart, the member representing Degema-Bonny Federal Constituency, applauded Wike for his legacy of promoting women's inclusion in governance, notably his insistence on appointing women as vice-chairmen in local councils.
Mr. Abinye Pepple, Chairman of Bonny Local Government Council, hailed Wike as a consistent leader. He expressed overwhelming joy at the new reality. "For the first time, our people can drive from Bonny to Port Harcourt. This is overwhelming. Our parents never experienced this," Pepple said.
He directly connected the achievement to future political allegiance, declaring, "Through you, Mr President has completed this project. Today, one can access Bonny by land, water, and air. For this and many other reasons, we will deliver Bonny to Tinubu in 2027."
The completion of the Bodo-Bonny Road marks a significant shift, transforming accessibility and safety for residents and businesses on the vital island, and stands as a central talking point in the relationship between the region and the federal government.
