FG to begin repairs on collapsed Taraba bridge – Minister

The Federal Government has announced plans to commence full-scale repairs on the collapsed Namnai Bridge in Gassol Local Government Area of Taraba State next week.

The bridge, which caved in during last year’s rainy season, has caused severe hardship for motorists and residents in the area.

Minister of State for Regional Development, Uba Maigari, disclosed this on Thursday during an inspection visit to the site, describing the situation as critical.

He assured that urgent intervention would be carried out to restore the vital link.

According to Maigari, engineers and experts have already assessed the bridge to determine the most efficient reconstruction approach.

He added that the Federal Government would collaborate with the Taraba State Government where necessary to accelerate the project and ease the suffering of road users.

“The North East Development Commission had earlier dispatched engineers and quantity surveyors to assess the condition of the bridge.

“This Namnai Bridge is one of 12 bridges listed for emergency intervention across the six states of the North-East region. Its collapse was an unforeseen natural disaster,” Maigari said.

He noted that discussions on the bridge, along with the Mayokam, Suntai, and Bantaji bridges, had taken place six weeks ago when Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, visited the ministry.

Maigari also revealed that the recently awarded Akwana Road project was part of the government’s broader commitment to infrastructure development in the state.

“As a responsible government, we will do everything necessary, including partnerships with the state government, to ensure prompt action.

“This bridge requires immediate attention, and we are committed to making the road motorable as soon as possible.

“You can hold us accountable. Within one week, we will provide a solution,” he assured.

A source reports that the Namnai Bridge, along the Jalingo-Wukari Federal Highway, had initially undergone temporary repairs by local residents. However, heavy rains on Tuesday night washed away the makeshift structure, further worsening the situation.