Jonathan who also commended the people of the country's South-East and South-South zones for their patience over delays in the construction of the second Niger River Bridge when he launched construction of the bridge here Monday.
Before performing the groundbreaking ceremony for the bridge at Atani, near Onitsha in Anambra state, President Jonathan said, "My sincere promise during my campaign is today made a reality to the good people of the South-East and South-South,"
The dual carriageway bridge, designed to be 1,590 metres long, is scheduled to be completed in four years' time by Julius Berger Construction Company.
According to the president, the Federal Government was building two important bridges across the two great rivers in the country -- the Niger and the Benue -- for the benefit of Nigerians.
"The construction of the second bridge across River Benue is going on smoothly and this one would follow suit immediately from now, This bridge, when completed, would alleviate the movement difficulties of our people and improve commerce and trade of our people, especially congestion witnessed during festive seasons. It will not only serve the people of these areas but all Nigerians and the West African sub-region."
He added that the bridge would be key to the economic development of the South-East and South-South zones. Saying Federal Government had committed 25 per cent of the total cost of the bridge and that other funding for the project would come in due course.
President Jonathan urged the governors of Anambra and Delta states which the bridge would link, to provide a favourable environment for the construction to ensure its timely completion.
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