By Mokobia Rita.
EMEVOR/Nigeria: The Delta State Government has recorded another milestone in its drive to expand development to rural communities with the completion of Phase II of the Emevor-Orogun Road project in Isoko North Local Government Area, a strategic infrastructure expected to boost economic activities and improve connectivity across the area.
Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, disclosed this after inspecting the project site, describing the road as a clear demonstration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s commitment to bridging the development gap between urban centres and rural communities through his administration’s M.O.R.E Agenda.
Aniagwu said the successful completion of the project reflects the governor’s determination to ensure inclusive development across the state, stressing that infrastructure remains a critical component of the administration’s efforts to improve the quality of life of residents.
He expressed satisfaction with the quality of work carried out by the contractor, Emorock Concepts Limited, noting that the project met the government’s expectations in terms of durability, functionality and value for money.
The commissioner commended the indigenous construction company for adhering to approved engineering specifications and maintaining professional standards throughout the execution of the project.
According to him, the road project involved extensive engineering works, including major earthworks, drainage construction and soil replacement in difficult swampy sections along the route.
He explained that specialised equipment, including swamp buggies, were deployed to overcome the challenging terrain and ensure that the road would withstand environmental pressures and serve residents for many years.
Aniagwu disclosed that the project had substantially been completed, with only a few finishing works, including road markings, drainage adjustments and other ancillary activities, remaining before it is presented to Governor Oborevwori for commissioning.
While expressing satisfaction with the overall performance of the contractor, he directed the company to immediately clear blocked drainage channels, complete outstanding concrete works at designated discharge points and replace a few damaged concrete slabs affected by premature use before the concrete attained full curing strength.
“Overall, I am highly impressed with the quality of work and the volume of construction carried out on this project. The contractor diligently followed the execution schedule and successfully navigated weather-related challenges by ensuring that critical earthworks and stone-base construction were completed before the peak rainy season,” Aniagwu said.
He noted that despite heavy rainfall during the construction period, steady progress was maintained, enabling the contractor to deliver major phases of the project within schedule.
The commissioner said the road would significantly enhance movement between communities, facilitate the transportation of agricultural produce, stimulate local economic activities and improve access to social and commercial opportunities for residents.
According to him, feedback from members of the host communities has been overwhelmingly positive, with many residents expressing appreciation for the quality and impact of the project.
He recalled an encounter with a visually impaired resident who expressed excitement about the smoothness and quality of the road, describing the experience as a powerful reminder that government projects are making meaningful impacts in the lives of ordinary people.
Aniagwu also urged residents to protect public infrastructure by ensuring that drainage channels remain free of obstructions.
He warned against the practice of blocking drainage systems with sand, refuse or other materials, stressing that such actions could compromise the lifespan of the road and increase the risk of flooding.
The commissioner assured residents that all outstanding finishing works would be completed before the official inauguration of the project.
He reiterated Governor Oborevwori’s commitment to opening up more rural communities through strategic infrastructure investments aimed at driving economic growth, improving connectivity and enhancing the living standards of the people.
With the Emevor-Orogun Road now substantially completed, the project stands as another visible testament to the Oborevwori administration’s resolve to extend the dividends of development beyond urban centres and into the heart of rural Delta communities.
