By Abdulbasid Dantsoho
The Federal Government (FG) has approved the resumption of the long-abandoned Ibbi Bridge project in Taraba State, months after a WikkiTimes investigation highlighted the impacts of the stalled project on residents who depend on the crossing for transportation, trade and access to essential services.
WikkiTimes reported in May the deplorable condition of the long-abandoned Ibbi Bridge project and the devastating impact its non-completion had on thousands of people around the area.
The report documented how communities in Ibbi Local Government Area had, for years, endured enormous hardship due to the stalled project. It revealed how residents relied on unsafe boats to cross the River Benue, particularly during the rainy season when rising water levels frequently disrupted movement, endangered lives, and, in some cases, led to fatal boat accidents.
The report also highlighted the economic consequences of the abandoned bridge, including restricted access to schools, healthcare facilities, markets and farmlands.
Months after the publication, the Government approved the continuation of the abandoned Ibbi Bridge project, signalling a major step toward completing one of Taraba State’s most critical transport infrastructure projects.
Announcing the approval during a media briefing in Abuja on 16 July 2026, the Minister of Works, David Umahi, disclosed that President Bola Tinubu had approved the completion of the Ibbi Bridge alongside the construction of the Lau Bridge across the River Benue as part of the administration’s infrastructure development programme.
The minister also announced the extension of the Fourth Legacy Highway by an additional 400 kilometres, increasing its total length from approximately 700 kilometres to about 1,100 kilometres, describing the approvals as part of the Government’s commitment to expanding strategic infrastructure nationwide.
For residents of Ibbi and neighbouring communities, the approval represents renewed hope after years of waiting for a project that many feared had been abandoned permanently.
Commenting on the development, governance advocate Jibrin Adamu said completing the bridge would have far-reaching economic benefits beyond Taraba State.
“Bridging the infrastructure deficit in states like Taraba has the potential to unlock the region’s vast resources and connect them to other states and international markets,” he said.
He added that the project would improve transportation for agricultural produce and mineral resources from Ibbi, Wukari and surrounding communities, reduce travel time, stimulate economic activities, create employment opportunities and contribute to national economic growth.
However, WikkiTimes could not confirm the details regarding contractor mobilisation, project timelines and implementation schedules which are yet to be announced.
The Government’s decision to resume work on the Ibbi Bridge came after WikkiTimes’ report brought renewed public attention to the prolonged abandonment of the project and its human and economic consequences.
