Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta has flagged-off construction of the ₦39.3 billion Otovwodo flyover project in Ughelli North Local Government Area of the state.
Speaking on Monday at the groundbreaking
ceremony, the governor said that the project would bring to an end, the protracted traffic congestion at the ever busy Otovwodo junction.
Oborevwori said that
the project was a major milestone in his administration’s infrastructure renewal drive.
He added that the project aligned with his leadership agenda of prudent resource allocation, durable road construction and the opening up of urban and rural corridors for inclusive growth.
The governor said that Ughelli was a historic, commercial and educational hub, adding that the town had overtime witnessed rapid population growth and by implications, placing enormous pressure on its road network.
He said that the Otovwodo junction
had became notorious for gridlock, costing commuters several productive hours daily.
Oborevwori said that the project, awarded to Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, was expected to be completed within 12 months, declaring that
the timeline was non-negotiable due to the strategic importance of the junction.
“The project includes a multi-span reinforced concrete bridge with dual carriageways, roundabouts and associated roadworks linking the East–West Road with other arterial routes.
“The flyover will ease congestion, reduce travel time, improve safety and boost economic activities.
“The project will also generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs across the construction value chain,” he said.
The governor urged residents to be patient and comply with traffic directives during the construction period.
Oborevwori assured that the state would continue to execute major projects without borrowing, adding that several completed projects across the state were awaiting
inauguration.
Earlier, Mr Peer Lubasch, the Managing Director of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, appreciated the state government for the confidence reposed in the company.
Lubasch said that the 15-span flyover would feature a dual carriageway, connecting roads, specialised drainage systems and solar street lighting.
He, however, assured it’s timely delivery and in a global standard.
In his remark, Mr Jaro Egbon, Chairman of Ughelli North Local Government Area
commended the governor for the project, describing it as transformative and long overdue.
The event was attended by: Mr Emomotimi Guwor,
the Speaker, Delta House of Assembly;
Elder Omeni Sobotie,
state Chairman, All Progressives Congress (APC); top government officials; traditional rulers and community leaders among others.
