Tinubu Approves ₦16.7bn for Immediate Reconstruction of Mokwa Bridge

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved ₦16.7 billion for the immediate reconstruction of the Mokwa Bridge in Niger State, which was destroyed by flooding in May.

Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, confirmed the approval on Saturday in Abuja, describing the project as an emergency intervention aimed at restoring a key transport link between the northern and southern regions.

Umahi said the bridge, located along the Ilorin–Jebba–Mokwa Road, plays a critical role in the nation’s economy by facilitating the movement of goods and commuters.

He added that construction will commence within weeks and is expected to be completed before the 2026 rainy season.

The May flooding, regarded as one of the worst in recent history, claimed over 500 lives, left more than 600 people missing, displaced thousands, and destroyed homes, roads, and farmlands. The collapse of the Mokwa Bridge has since disrupted supply chains and caused economic losses in the affected areas.
The Minister disclosed that the reconstruction will include flood-resilient designs to mitigate future damage, with the Federal Government working closely with the Niger State Government on the project.

Local communities have welcomed the development, urging authorities to involve indigenes in the rebuilding process to ensure transparency and provide job opportunities.