AMAI/Nigeria: The Delta State Government has reiterated its unwavering commitment to delivering durable infrastructure across the state, declaring that quality and timely completion of projects under the administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori remain non-negotiable.
The State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, stated this during an inspection of ongoing road projects, including the Emevor–Orogun Road Phase II in Isoko North Local Government Area and the Amai/Aragba Road in Ukwuani Local Government Area.
Speaking during the inspection, Aniagwu expressed satisfaction with the progress recorded on the 7.4-kilometre Amai–Aragba/Orogun Road project, noting that the contractor had undertaken extensive earthworks and stone base preparations in several sections of the road.
“Before coming here, we inspected the 7.4-kilometre stretch of the Amai–Aragba Road and I want to say that I am impressed with the work that is being done there. I saw the earthworks that are being executed in addition to the other areas where they have stone-based,” Aniagwu said.
The commissioner, however, urged the contractor to accelerate the pace of work to ensure that the project is completed within the next two to three months.
According to him, the standard of work being executed aligns with the expectations of the state government, which is determined to ensure that contractors deliver quality infrastructure capable of serving the people for many years.
Inspecting the 4.8-kilometre Emevor–Orogun Road Phase II project, Aniagwu said the progress recorded had further justified the state government’s decision to engage indigenous contractors in executing major infrastructure projects.
“This project has further justified our decision to make use of a number of indigenous contractors. This contractor, Emo Rock Concepts Limited, is doing the kind of job that can compete favourably with any of the international brands,” he said.
Aniagwu recalled that the contractor had successfully handled the first phase of the road project, which he said remained in excellent condition, a development that informed the state government’s decision to award the Phase II contract to the same company.
He explained that the construction design adopted for the road, including the elevation of the road above natural ground level and the construction of retaining walls, was deliberately designed to address the swampy terrain in the area.
According to him, the road was raised by more than two metres using large volumes of sharp sand to ensure that it remains protected from flooding.
“What it means is that no matter the kind of flood that you have in this environment, this road will be protected,” he said.
Aniagwu added that the level of compaction carried out on the project demonstrated the contractor’s technical competence and strict adherence to engineering standards.
He noted that the contractor had complied fully with the specifications outlined in the Bill of Engineering Measurement and Evaluation (BEME), stressing that the firm was not cutting corners in the materials used for the project.
The commissioner emphasised that the Delta State Government expects all contractors handling projects in the state to deliver infrastructure that provides value for money and long-term benefits for residents.
“And that is what we expect of every contractor, whether indigenous or otherwise, because for us to get value for money, you must execute projects in such a way that they stand the test of time and enable Deltans to reap the full benefits of what the governor intends,” Aniagwu said.
He reiterated that Governor Oborevwori places high priority on quality project delivery and strict adherence to timelines, adding that the contractor handling the Emevor–Orogun Road Phase II was meeting the expectations of the state government.
Although the project was awarded in July 2024 with a completion period of 24 months, Aniagwu said the pace of work indicated that it could be completed much earlier than scheduled
“From the speed of work, I can see that in less than three months’ time, this job will be done and dusted,” he stated.
The commissioner disclosed that most sections of the road had already reached the binder course stage, while only a few areas covering about 300 metres around culverts were yet to attain that level.
He expressed optimism that once the wearing course begins, the remaining work could be completed within two to three weeks, making it possible for the project to be delivered before the end of April.
Aniagwu commended the contractor for the quality, speed and neat finishing of the work, particularly the construction of shoulders and drainage culverts.
He urged other contractors handling projects across the state to emulate the standard demonstrated on the project, assuring that the Oborevwori administration remains committed to delivering durable road infrastructure that will enhance connectivity and socio-economic development across Delta State.
