Flood: NEDC assures residents and motorists of speedy completion of destroyed bridges

In efforts to reconstruct two major bridges destroyed by the floods of 11 September 2024 in Maiduguri, the North East Development Commission (NEDC) has assured motorists that the ongoing construction projects will be completed before the rainy season, noting that the bridges serve as the economic lifeline of the affected communities in Jere Local Government Area of Borno State.

Mohammed Goni Alkali, Managing Director of the NEDC, said this while inspecting the ongoing construction of the Galtimari and Moromoro bridges in Maiduguri, describing the projects as vital to restoring access, reviving local commerce, and accelerating recovery efforts.

He said the Commission remained unwavering in its commitment to the timely delivery of critical infrastructure across the region.

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Alkali expressed satisfaction that work had commenced on the collapsed bridges and assured commuters of their timely completion to ease difficulties on the road.

“There is no room for delay because these bridges are crucial to reconnecting communities and restoring livelihoods,” he said.

The two bridges, destroyed during the 2024 Maiduguri flood, are part of the state’s wider reconstruction programme.

Alkali added that contractors have been instructed to adhere strictly to agreed timelines, with continuous technical supervision to ensure quality.

“The Commission is committed to transparency and accountability, working closely with the Borno State Government to monitor progress and address challenges,” he noted.

He reaffirmed NEDC’s commitment to recovery across the North-East, highlighting that road and bridge construction remains central to its development plan.

During the inspection, Kori Shattima, who serves as both consultant and project coordinator, said the bridges rank among the most significant works undertaken in the state.

She explained that the Galtimari bridge is being rebuilt as a six-span, 120-metre structure to better withstand future flooding.

Before its collapse, she noted, the bridge served as a key alternative route for residents and traders, and its reconstruction has already eased movement around the market district.

Once completed, the bridges are expected to ease transport difficulties and restore economic links disrupted by insecurity and flooding.