UZERE/Nigeria: The reconstruction of the Uzere–Asaba–Ase Road and its associated bridge works is a strategic investment in Delta’s rural economy, Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, has stated.
Inspecting the project in Isoko South Local Government Area, Izeze said the initiative, estimated at ₦8 billion, demonstrates Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s commitment to equitable infrastructure development by linking underserved communities and enhancing the movement of goods and people.
“This project confirms to you, to the people here, and to Deltans in particular and indeed to everyone that this Governor is truly an unusual leader,” he said.
“For some of you, this may be your first time visiting this part of Delta State. You can imagine a Governor who is willing to commit about ₦8 billion to ensure that communities in the hinterlands are properly linked together.”
The commissioner, who was accompanied by the Acting Permanent Secretary, Engr. Solomon Aghagba, and other senior officials of the Ministry, explained that the intervention was driven by the daily realities faced by rural dwellers, especially women who transport farm produce across difficult terrain.
“We have been on ground and you have witnessed women carrying their farm produce, some of them struggling to move goods from one end to another. Without considering the needs of these people, we would not be able to undertake projects of this magnitude,” he stated.
According to Izeze, Governor Oborevwori’s development philosophy is anchored on fairness and inclusion.
“When he says he is a Governor for all, he does not mean a Governor for particular tribes. He means a Governor for every person domiciled within the geographical space called Delta State,” he added.
Currently at over 60 per cent completion, the project involves the reconstruction of failed culverts and rehabilitation of distressed sections along the 4.35-kilometre road. It also includes the construction of a 100-span bridge comprising an 80-metre main span and an additional 20-metre span across swampy terrain.
Izeze disclosed that the contractor had encountered some challenges and requested an on-the-spot assessment by the Ministry to ensure alignment with amended contract provisions. Following a joint review with the Acting Permanent Secretary, the Ministry directed the contractor to proceed strictly in accordance with the approved design, stressing that no further adjustments would be entertained.
The commissioner, however, raised concern over alleged attempts by a family in the area to impede the progress of the project.
“I would like this noted and reported properly, the Urie family of Uzere who, perhaps out of ignorance, have attempted to impede the progress of this project,” he said, appealing to them to desist in the interest of the wider community and the state.
He urged the family to cooperate with the contractor, noting that the Local Government Chairman and Chief Security Officer had been duly informed of the situation.
“Delta State is governed by law. We will not degenerate into a state of lawlessness. The Private Property and Public Property Protection Law of Delta State is very clear: no individual, group, or community has the right to impede the development of any property,” Izeze warned, adding that offenders risk a jail term of three years or more, with or without the option of a fine, depending on the court’s discretion.
“There is a new Sheriff in town, and under this Sheriff, anyone who behaves unlawfully will face the consequences of their actions,” he added.
A representative of the contracting firm, LEBTECH Construction Limited, Mr. Roni Karam, expressed confidence that the project would be delivered by April 2027.
“As you can see, work is progressing steadily. By the end of April, by the grace of God, the project should be completed,” he assured.
A project brief issued by the Ministry of Works’ Department of Highways in Asaba in February 2026 shows that the original contract sums are ₦4,944,550,766.14 and ₦3,165,562,579.99. The contracts were awarded on January 8, 2025, to LEBTECH Construction Limited.
The scope of work includes scarification and removal of unsuitable materials, sharp sand filling, placement of boulders across a 1,300-metre swampy stretch, crushed stone layering, grassing for abutment protection, installation of relief culverts, base works and rehabilitation of failed sections with a 50mm binder course.
So far, all piling works, pile caps and piers have been completed. Of the 35 longitudinal beams required, 32 have been completed, while one abutment wall has been delivered and casting of the second is pending.
Upon completion, the reconstruction is expected to significantly improve connectivity, reduce travel time and enhance the movement of agricultural produce along the Uzere–Asaba–Ase corridor, boosting socio-economic activities in Isoko South and adjoining communities.
