ASABA/Nigeria: In response to growing concerns over the deplorable condition of federal roads in Delta State, the government has taken decisive action to address the issue. This was revealed at the State Executive Council Meeting held on Tuesday, September 12, 2023, where approval was given for remedial work on key federal roads, with a particular focus on the Asaba-Benin Expressway and Agbor-Eku Road.
Commissioner for Works in charge of Rural and Riverine Roads, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, made this significant announcement following the meeting. He also revealed that the State Executive Council had given instructions to the Ministries of Works (Highways and Rural Roads) to undertake the necessary remedial actions to improve the usability of federal roads in the state.
The approval comes in the wake of growing public outcry, with the Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) raising concerns about the deteriorated condition of federal roads in the state, in a widely published story across various online media platforms over the weekend, the focus was primarily on the Agbor-Obiaruku-Abraka-Eku Federal Road.
The Commissioner for Works emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing the plight of Deltans affected by these poorly maintained federal roads. He stated, “We are fully aware of the challenges faced by our citizens due to the deplorable state of these federal roads. Our government is resolute in taking action to ameliorate their suffering.”
Massive Infrastructure Boost for Warri/Effurun Megalopolis
The meeting also granted approval for initiatives aimed at mitigating traffic congestion and improving the infrastructure within the Warri/Effurun megalopolis. These projects, valued at N78 billion, have been awarded to Julius Berger Nigeria Limited and encompass the construction of three elevated flyover bridges along with extensive road expansion. The council members expressed great enthusiasm for these contracts, which are designed to address the ongoing traffic challenges in the twin cities. Engr. Fred Edafiogho, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Works, provided detailed information about the projects, which include:
Enerhen Junction to Marine Gate Flyover: This project encompasses the design and construction of a flyover bridge at Enerhen junction to Marine Gate.
DSC/NPA Expressway Expansion: The initiative involves a study, design, and construction of road expansion and improvement works on the section of the DSC/NPA Expressway from Effurun roundabout to DSC roundabout. It also includes the construction of a 3/4 Cloverleaf interchange at the existing Effurun Flyover Bridge and two pedestrian bridges.
PTI Junction and DSC Roundabout Flyover: This project encompasses the design and construction of a flyover bridge at PTI junction and DSC roundabout along the Effurun/Patani, East-West highway in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area.
Mr. Edafiogho emphasized that the road expansion on the DSC/NPA Expressway would significantly enhance traffic flow by providing two lanes of restricted carriageway at the center for through-traffic and an additional two lanes of service road in each travel direction, increasing the road’s capacity from four lanes to eight lanes. Drainage systems will also be incorporated to manage stormwater, and cloverleaf interchanges and U-turns will facilitate unimpeded traffic flow.
These four crucial projects are slated for completion within 27 months, with an estimated finish date in December 2025.
Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, reiterated that Governor Oborevwori’s commitment to revitalizing Warri/Uvwie was a driving force behind these approvals. Julius Berger was selected due to its track record of experience, competitive pricing, and punctual project delivery.
The project’s total value stands at N78 billion, with the state government making an initial advance payment of N19.5 billion, followed by the balance being paid through an Infrastructure-Based Public Private Partnership (ISPO) spread over 30 months.
