UGHELLI/Nigeria: Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has set a firm 12-month deadline for the completion of the ₦39.3 billion Otovwodo (Ughelli) Flyover, describing the project as a permanent solution to the chronic traffic congestion at one of the busiest junctions in the state.
The governor spoke on Monday while performing the groundbreaking ceremony for the project in Ughelli, stressing that the completion timeline was non-negotiable due to the strategic importance of the Otovwodo Junction to movement, commerce and daily life in Delta State.
Oborevwori said the flyover marks a major milestone in his administration’s infrastructure renewal drive and reflects its commitment to prudent resource management, durable road construction and the opening up of critical urban and rural corridors for inclusive growth.
He noted that Ughelli, a historic commercial and educational hub, has witnessed rapid population growth over the years, exerting enormous pressure on its road network, particularly the Otovwodo Junction, the East–West Road and adjoining arterial routes.
According to the governor, the junction had become notorious for persistent gridlock, costing commuters several productive hours daily. He added that he had personally experienced the traffic congestion at the location, further underscoring the urgency for a long-term intervention.
As an interim measure ahead of the flyover construction, Oborevwori disclosed that his administration had opened and rehabilitated alternative routes, including Uduere Street, Okogbe Street, Oru Street, Edo Street and Royal Avenue linking Agbarha-Otor Road, at a cost of nearly ₦6 billion, to ease traffic pressure in the area.
He said the flyover project, awarded to Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, would feature a multi-span reinforced concrete bridge with dual carriageways, roundabouts and extensive ancillary roadworks linking the East–West Road with other major routes.
According to him, the project would significantly reduce travel time, improve road safety and stimulate economic activities in Ughelli and surrounding communities.
The governor also highlighted the employment benefits of the project, noting that it would generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs across the construction value chain. He urged residents to exercise patience and comply with traffic regulations during the construction period.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to transparency and accountability, Oborevwori assured that Delta State would continue to execute major projects without borrowing. He added that several completed projects across the state were awaiting commissioning, with more to be flagged off in 2026 under the Renewed Hope for MORE Agenda.
Earlier, the Managing Director of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Engr. Peer Lubasch, thanked the state government for the confidence reposed in the company, describing the contract as an affirmation of its technical capacity and enduring partnership with Delta State.
Lubasch said the 15-span flyover would include a dual carriageway, connecting roads, specialised drainage systems and solar-powered street lighting, assuring that the project would be delivered within schedule and to global standards.
After the ceremony, the governor paid courtesy visits to the Ovie of Ughelli Kingdom, Wilson Ojakovo Oharisi III, and Chief Morrison Olori, founder and chairman of Ukodo Nation, where he reiterated his pledge to govern Delta State inclusively and without discrimination.
In their remarks, Chairman of Ughelli North Local Government Council, on. Jaro Egbo, and the Otota (spokesman) of Ughelli Kingdom, Chief Peter Akpofure, described the project as transformative and long overdue, while appealing for additional internal roads and complementary infrastructure.
The ceremony attracted a large turnout, including the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Dennis Guwor, State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Elder Omeni Sobotie, members of the National Assembly, Hon. Francis Waive and Hon. Ngozi Okolie, top government officials, traditional rulers, community leaders and residents, who hailed the flyover as a decisive step toward resolving Ughelli’s long-standing traffic challenges.
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