OKPANAM/Nigeria: Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Thursday, braved a heavy downpour to perform the groundbreaking ceremony for the ₦21.3 billion Ugbolu–Okpanam Road project in Oshimili North Local Government Area, describing it as another milestone in his administration’s aggressive infrastructure renewal drive under the MORE Agenda.
Speaking at the ceremony held in Ugbolu, Governor Oborevwori said the 12-kilometre road project reflects his administration’s unwavering commitment to building durable and sustainable infrastructure that drives economic growth and enhances the quality of life for Deltans.
“Today’s groundbreaking marks another significant milestone in furtherance of this administration’s MORE Agenda. Our infrastructure plan, as clearly outlined in the Agenda, is anchored on the prudent allocation of resources toward the delivery of reliable, high-quality, and durable road infrastructure across Delta State,” the governor said.
He noted that the Ugbolu–Okpanam Road aligns with Goals 9 and 11 of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which emphasize resilient infrastructure, inclusive industrialization, and sustainable communities. Oborevwori explained that efficient road networks remain vital enablers of growth, facilitating trade, market access, and investments while creating jobs and reducing poverty.
According to the governor, the new road will link Ugbolu and Okpanam communities, improve connectivity between Ibusa and Akwukwu-Igbo through the recently commissioned Ibusa–Okpanam Road, and ease traffic congestion in Asaba, the state capital. He added that it would also enhance agricultural productivity, reduce insecurity along the corridor, and boost socio-economic activities in Oshimili North.
Oborevwori disclosed that the project, valued at ₦21,311,311,898.20, has already received a 40 percent mobilization payment of ₦8,524,524,759.28. The road will feature an 8.0-metre-wide asphaltic pavement, 1.5-metre hard shoulders on both sides, and over 27,000 metres of reinforced concrete drains with stormwater channels.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to financial discipline and transparency, stressing that no contract variation or upward review would be entertained. “As of today, my administration is not owing any contractor, whether for inherited or newly awarded projects. We have consistently maintained prompt payment within five days of certification to encourage timely project completion,” he said.
The governor urged the contractor, Levant Construction Company, to maintain its long-standing reputation for quality delivery and ensure timely completion of the project. “Given their proven track record, I have no doubt they will deliver satisfactorily. By the grace of God, we shall all be here again to commission this strategic road to the glory of God and the benefit of humanity,” Oborevwori assured.
Chairman of Oshimili North Local Government, Hon. Innocent Esewezie, expressed deep appreciation to the governor for his steadfast commitment to infrastructural development, noting that the event was earlier postponed due to weather conditions. He praised the governor for personally keeping his promise to perform the groundbreaking, describing the project as “a testament to the Governor’s transformative MORE Agenda.”
He added that the local government had keyed into the state’s development vision through ongoing projects in roads, markets, youth empowerment, and education. “Our confidence in your government remains absolute. The people of Oshimili North are proud to partake in the dividends of your administration’s developmental strides,” Esewezie said.
The Ugoani of Okpanam Kingdom, HRM Dr. Michael Mbanefo, also lauded Governor Oborevwori for his progressive leadership, describing the project as “a symbol of unity, connectivity, and growth.” He assured the governor of the community’s continued support.
Managing Director of Levant Construction Company, Engr. Elie Tannous, thanked the governor for the confidence reposed in the company and pledged to execute the project according to schedule and specifications.
The groundbreaking ceremony was graced by the State Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme; Deputy National Chairman (South) of the APC, Chief Emma Eneukwu; State APC Chairman, Elder Omeni Sobotie; top government officials; traditional rulers; community leaders; and representatives of the construction firm, marking another giant stride in Delta State’s infrastructure transformation journey.
