By joshua SPECIAL ADVISER TO KOGI STATE GOVERNOR INSPECTS REHABILITATED EDIA-KOTON KARFE BRIDGES, COMMENDS SPEED AND QUALITY OF WORK
—Says Rehabilitation, Streetlights and Concrete Pavement Have Transformed Abuja-Lokoja Corridor
The Special Adviser to the Governor of Kogi State on Federal Projects Implementation, Chief Emmanuel Obasi, has expressed satisfaction with the completed rehabilitation of the Edia-Koton Karfe Bridges along the Abuja-Lokoja Federal Highway.
Chief Obasi stated this today, 07/08/26, after personally inspecting the rehabilitated bridges and other infrastructure works along the corridor.
He described what he saw during the inspection as a significant improvement from the condition of the bridges when they were previously closed to traffic because of serious structural defects.
According to him, the rehabilitation has been comprehensively executed, with the two bridges now restored to the best possible functional condition for motorists and other road users.
«“I have personally inspected the project today, and I am very happy with what I have seen. The quality of the work, the extent of the rehabilitation and the overall improvement are quite impressive.”»
Chief Obasi recalled that he had inspected the Edia-Koton Karfe Bridge in August 2025 following its closure by the Federal Ministry of Works because of dangerous defects that had developed on the structure.
He noted that, at that time, portions of the reinforced and asphaltic concrete overlay had failed, exposing badly deteriorated reinforcement and creating openings through which one could see into the river beneath.
He said the closure of the bridge was therefore a necessary safety measure, while also creating pressure on the sister bridge as traffic was diverted to the alternate lane.
«“Following concerns raised by the Kogi State Government over the dangerous condition of the bridge, the Federal Ministry of Works immediately took the proactive step of closing it to traffic. Coming back today, 07/08/26, and seeing both bridges fully rehabilitated is really a thing of joy.”»
Chief Obasi said the quality and speed of the work were particularly noteworthy, adding that the intervention had gone beyond the mere rehabilitation of the bridges. He pointed specifically to the street lighting and the concrete pavement extending between the bridges and up to the Murtala Mohammed Bridge at Jamata, describing them as important additions that have further improved the corridor.
«“What is particularly encouraging is that the work is not limited to the bridges. We now have streetlights and concrete pavement extending between the bridges and up to the Murtala Mohammed Bridge at Jamata. These are significant improvements that will enhance safety, visibility and the durability of the corridor.”»
Chief Obasi, however, called for an expert structural examination of the pier foundations/footings beneath the bridges, noting that during his inspection he could not clearly see the footing of all the bridge piers. He stressed that, given the age of the bridges and their location in the river, it would be prudent for for the Federal Ministry of Works bridge engineers to examine the submerged foundations and confirm their structural integrity and continued capacity to safely support the rehabilitated structures before finally opening the bridges to traffic. He equally called on the Contractor to extend the street lightening to cover the distance between the rehabilitated bridges and extend same to Murtala Mohammed Bridge as earlier directed by the Hon Minister. He also noted that the quality of the installed Streetlights does not meet the standard of the Lagos Mainland Bridge as directed by the Hon Minister.
Chief Obasi further used the opportunity to commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment and bold steps towards the rehabilitation of critical federal infrastructure across the country, and equally praised the Minister of Works, Senator Engr. David Umahi, CON, for his proactive and decisive approach to the project. He also commended Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, FCA, for his consistent and result-oriented engagement with the Federal Government, noting that such constructive engagement and follow-up by the Governor have helped to draw sustained attention to critical infrastructure needs in Kogi State.
“I happily commend Mr. President for his commitment to the renewal of critical infrastructure, the Honourable Minister of Works for his proactive and decisive intervention, and Governor Ododo for his result-oriented engagement with the Federal Government. What we are witnessing today is a good example of how political will, effective engagement and responsive administration can produce tangible results for the people.”
Chief Obasi stressed the strategic importance of the Abuja-Lokoja Federal Highway, noting that it carries enormous volumes of passenger, commercial and heavy-duty traffic and serves as a major link between Abuja and several parts of the country.
He said the rehabilitation of the Edia-Koton Karfe Bridges would therefore have benefits far beyond Kogi State, particularly in improving road safety, transportation and the movement of goods and people.
He urged motorists, especially operators of articulated vehicles, to drive responsibly and protect the newly rehabilitated infrastructure from premature deterioration.
Chief Obasi also called for continued routine maintenance of the bridges and road infrastructure to ensure that the substantial investment made in the corridor is preserved for many years.
He concluded by describing the project as a job well done, while expressing appreciation to the Federal Ministry of Works for the successful intervention.
“From what I have seen today, I am satisfied with the job. The bridges have been rehabilitated, the surrounding infrastructure has been improved, and the overall appearance and functionality of this important corridor have changed considerably. It is a job well done. 2027 is surely for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Gov Ahmed Usman Ododo to reap the fruits of their labour from Kogites and Nigerians”