
By Mokobia Rita
ASABA/Nigeria: Paul Enebeli Close in Asaba is among several streets and road corridors approved for construction and rehabilitation by the Delta State Executive Council as part of a wider infrastructure programme covering communities across the state.
The approval, announced after a council meeting presided over by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori at Government House, Asaba, also covers roads in Warri, Effurun, Ugbolu, Illah, Emede, Obiaruku and other communities, alongside extensions to ongoing flyover projects and the construction of public facilities.
Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Charles Aniagwu, disclosed the decisions while briefing journalists after the meeting. He was accompanied by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Festus Ahon.
In Asaba, the council approved the construction of Paul Enebeli Close, Opene Street, Waterholic Street and Flourish Garden Apartment Lane, including a spur connecting to Princess Ajudua Extension. Oyemike Street, with another spur off Ralph Uwhechue Road, was also approved.
The projects form part of a wider list of road interventions intended to improve access within residential areas and strengthen connections between communities. However, the announcement did not specify construction commencement dates, contract sums or completion timelines for the individual streets.
Beyond the state capital, the council approved the reconstruction of the first phase of the Warri Ring Road, covering the stretch from First Marine Gates to Port Gate. It also approved the rehabilitation of the section from Old Port Gate to the Nigerian Ports Authority Expressway.
Other major roads scheduled for intervention include Airport Road in Warri, Jakpa Road in Effurun and Refinery Road, where rapid rehabilitation and asphalt overlay have been approved.
Aniagwu said the condition of Refinery Road had made its rehabilitation urgent because of the difficulties motorists and residents were experiencing. He explained that Oborevwori had directed the relevant Ministry of Works to inspect the road and submit a proposal for the council’s consideration.
The council also approved extensions to the ongoing flyover project at Otovwodo Junction in Ughelli and additional works along the adjoining road corridor. A similar extension was approved for the flyover project towards College Junction in Agbor.
In Oshimili North Local Government Area, the approved projects include the reconstruction and rehabilitation of the Ugbolu-Illah Road, as well as the construction of Dr Sunday Okonji Drive, Opone Street and Dr and Mrs Ojogho Street. The completion of Chief Patrick Ukah Way in Okpanam, extending towards Okotomi Quarters, was also approved.
In Udu Local Government Area, the council approved the construction of A.I. Mofo Street in Otor-Udu. Iwezue Street in Boji-Boji was also included in the list of approved projects.
The reconstruction of Emede Internal Road in Isoko South Local Government Area was approved in two phases, while the council approved Eziokpor Road Phase II in Obiaruku, Ukwuani Local Government Area, including a spur leading to Odalonu Street.
Other projects include Eyimofe Street in Orerokpe, Guest House Road in Ugbokodo and Zion Street in Ughoton, all in Okpe Local Government Area.
Beyond road construction, the council approved permanent office buildings for the Delta State Electricity Regulatory Commission and the Rural Development Agency.
Aniagwu said the proposed electricity regulatory commission building would support the state’s efforts to develop its electricity market under the expanded regulatory responsibilities available to state governments following reforms in the power sector.
The council also approved an ultra-modern MBA lecture theatre at Delta State University, Abraka, and a clubhouse for civil servants at the State Secretariat in Asaba.
According to the commissioner, the administration remained committed to implementing its development programme despite preparations for the 2027 general elections, which he said would not distract the government from its responsibilities.
While the latest approvals cover roads and public facilities across several local government areas, their practical impact will depend on the commencement, execution and completion of the projects. Residents and road users will therefore be looking for timely implementation and improvements that address the access and transportation challenges the interventions are intended to resolve.