EFFURUN/Nigeria: Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, fulfilled a significant promise made during his inauguration on May 29 by commencing the groundbreaking ceremony for a colossal infrastructure endeavor in the Effurun and Warri metropolis of the state. The ceremony marked the initiation of the construction of three flyovers, cloverleaf, road expansion, and pedestrian bridges, signaling a monumental transformation in the region.
The ambitious projects encompass road expansion and enhancement works spanning between Effurun and DSC roundabouts, PTI Junction Flyover, DSC Roundabout flyover, Enerhen junction/Marine Gate flyover, and a cloverleaf at Effurun roundabout.
Addressing the gathering in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area, Governor Oborevwori emphasized the projects’ capacity to alleviate traffic congestion and enhance vehicular movements in the designated areas. He underscored the transformative impact expected on the twin cities of Effurun and Warri.
Governor Oborevwori highlighted the multifaceted benefits of these projects, anticipating a surge in employment opportunities across various sectors involved in the construction value chain, from engineers and artisans to suppliers and transporters.
“We have released the agreed sum as advance payment to the contractor,” the Governor disclosed, signaling the commencement of preliminary activities such as surveys, final designs, and sub-soil tests. The total contract sum for these ventures amounts to a staggering N77,997,159,339.91, with an allotted completion timeframe of twenty-seven months.
Elucidating the projects’ strategic importance, Governor Oborevwori articulated their fundamental role in alleviating traffic bottlenecks experienced between Effurun Roundabout, PTI Road Junction, and DSC Roundabout. Additionally, he stressed their impact on facilitating smoother vehicular movement from Enerhen Junction in Effurun to Marine Gate in Warri, spanning Uvwie and Warri South Local Government Areas.
“As I said during the contract signing ceremony, these projects will not only change the face of the Warri-Effurun Metropolis, they will also ease the traffic congestion in the area and alleviate the hardship faced by commuters,” reiterated Governor Oborevwori.
The Governor urged relentless commitment from the contractor to adhere to the agreed schedule, emphasizing the imperative role of local communities in supporting and ensuring the swift completion of these endeavors.
In lauding the Governor’s vision, Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, acknowledged the historic involvement of Julius Berger in executing projects for the State Government, affirming the company’s commitment to meeting project timelines and specifications.
Acknowledging the State Government’s foresight, Managing Director of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Mr. Lars Richter, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to execute these special infrastructure projects and assured adherence to outlined schedules and standards.
The local community leaders, including the Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom, HRM Dr. Emmanuel Sideso, Abe I, and the Olu of Warri Kingdom, Ogiame Atuwatse III, represented by Dr. Roland Oritsejafor, pledged unwavering support and protection of the projects, emphasizing their significance in fostering unity and development.
Chairmen of Uvwie and Warri South Local Government Areas, Hon. Ransom Onoyake and Dr. Michael Tidi, respectively, affirmed the populace’s contentment with Governor Oborevwori’s efforts in project delivery and vowed cooperation for timely completion.
The State Executive Council’s approval of the contract in September and the subsequent contract signing ceremony in October paved the way for the commencement of these transformative projects, signifying the government’s resolute commitment to enhancing road and transport infrastructure in the region as part of its development agenda.
