BURUTU/Nigeria: Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Wednesday reiterated his administration’s commitment to delivering equitable and impactful development across the state, with a strong focus on riverine communities long deprived of critical infrastructure.
The Governor made the declaration while inaugurating the newly reconstructed 12.1-kilometre Odimodi–Okuntu–Ogulagha Road in Burutu Local Government Area, describing the project as “a strategic intervention that reconnects communities historically cut off by challenging terrain.”
Oborevwori expressed delight at the excitement of residents, noting that the project reflects his administration’s resolve to deliver quality and durable infrastructure to all Deltans.
“The joy in the air today is proof that our administration is meeting the desires and expectations of the people,” he said. “This road, originally built by SPDC many years ago, had deteriorated badly. When I visited, I saw its condition and decided it must be rehabilitated. Today, we are here to commission it to the glory of God and for the prosperity of our people.”
He stressed that the road was executed to high engineering standards capable of withstanding the Niger Delta’s difficult terrain. He commended both the contractors and supervising engineers for the quality delivery.
The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s policy of prompt contractor payments, which he said has prevented the rise of abandoned projects in the state. “In Delta State, no contractor is being owed. We pay promptly to ensure projects are completed on schedule. That is why contractors prefer working here—they get their money once the work is properly done,” he said.
Oborevwori noted that while his government continues to complete inherited projects, it is also initiating new ones across the state. He cited the groundbreaking for the 12-kilometre Warri–Sapele–Benin Road section, as well as upcoming projects including the Otovwodo Flyover in Ughelli, the Uromi Junction Flyover in Agbor, and other key road and bridge interventions to support economic growth.
He assured riverine communities that more development is on the way, including additional roads, schools, and shore protection works. “Our people in the riverine communities deserve the best. As hosts to much of the nation’s oil wealth, it is only right that they feel the touch of governance in tangible ways,” he said.
Member representing Burutu Federal Constituency, Hon. Julius Pondi, praised the Governor for his attention to the riverine areas, describing the project as “the beginning of many good things to come.” He assured the Governor of overwhelming support from the constituency.
Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Commissioner for Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, said the project showcased Oborevwori’s love for riverine people. He explained that the road features pavement widths ranging from 6.5 to 10 metres, extensive drainage upgrades, and the replacement of outdated culverts with durable, flood-resistant structures.
Chairman of Burutu Local Government, Hon. Julius Takeme, thanked the Governor for sustained investments in the area, including the Kiagbodo Technical College and the Ayakoromo Bridge. He appealed for the construction of an access road to Burutu town, noting that it remains the only local government headquarters in Nigeria without a road link.
He assured the Governor of unwavering support ahead of the 2027 election, saying, “We are praying for you, and when the time comes, our people will vote massively for your re-election.”
Chairman of Ogulagha Community, Comrade Bright Guwor, described the completed road as more than a physical link, calling it “a powerful symbol of unity, progress, and improved quality of life.”
The event drew key government officials, including the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, his deputy, members of the assembly, community leaders, and jubilant residents who hailed the project as a historic transformation of the riverine corridor and a clear demonstration of the Oborevwori administration’s “Renewed Hope for More Agenda” in action.
