Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta on Thursday defied a heavy downpour to perform the groundbreaking ceremony for the N21.3 billion Ugbolu–Okpanam Road project in Oshimili North Local Government Area.
The governor described the event as a major step forward in the implementation of his administration’s infrastructure renewal strategy, which is being executed under the MORE Agenda aimed at delivering sustainable development across Delta State.
Speaking during the event in Ugbolu, Oborevwori stated that the 12-kilometre road project was carefully designed to improve connectivity and support economic growth through the construction of durable and high-quality road infrastructure.
According to him, “Today’s groundbreaking marks another significant milestone in furtherance of this administration’s MORE Agenda.
“Our infrastructure plan is anchored on the prudent allocation of resources toward the delivery of reliable, high-quality, and durable road infrastructure across Delta State,” he stated.
The governor emphasised that the Ugbolu–Okpanam Road aligned with international development standards, specifically Goals 9 and 11 of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which promote resilient infrastructure and sustainable communities.
He also explained that well-planned road infrastructure plays a critical role in driving progress by facilitating access to markets, boosting trade, attracting investment, creating jobs, and ultimately reducing poverty among citizens.
Oborevwori stated that the new road would provide a direct link between Ugbolu and Okpanam, expand road access to Ibusa and Akwukwu-Igbo, and help reduce persistent traffic congestion in the Asaba metropolitan area.
He further noted that the project would enhance agricultural activity in the region by easing transport challenges faced by farmers, while also contributing to a reduction in crime along the road corridor.
According to the governor, the road construction contract has a total value of N21,311,311,898.20, with the contractor already receiving a 40 per cent advance payment amounting to N8,524,524,759.28 to facilitate mobilisation and early work.
Oborevwori disclosed that the road will feature an 8.0-metre-wide asphaltic carriageway, 1.5-metre-wide hard shoulders on both sides, and over 27,000 metres of reinforced concrete drains with stormwater channels.
He stressed that his administration would not accept any upward review or variation of the contract sum, adding that all payments would continue to be processed strictly based on verified progress and certification.
According to him, will not entertain contract variations or upward reviews.Certified payments will continue to be processed and paid within five working days to encourage timely completion.
Oborevwori added that his administration remained financially disciplined and currently owes no contractor, whether for newly awarded or inherited projects, due to the government’s consistent and prompt payment culture.
“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, ” he said.
He called on the contractor, Levant Construction Company, to live up to its established reputation for quality and professionalism by ensuring that the project is delivered on time and according to specifications.
“Given their proven track record, I have no doubt that 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, ” the governor said.
Chairman of Oshimili North Local Government Area, Hon. Innocent Esewezie, commended the governor for his unwavering dedication to infrastructure development and expressed gratitude on behalf of the people of the LGA.
Esewezie recalled that the groundbreaking ceremony was initially scheduled for October 7 but had to be postponed due to unfavourable weather conditions.
He praised the governor for honouring his commitment to reschedule the event personally.
“The Ugbolu–Okpanam Road is more than a physical construction project.
“It is a testament to the Governor’s transformative MORE Agenda and his resolve to deliver on his promises,” he said.
He said the local government area has aligned itself with the state government’s development strategy, implementing local projects in roads, markets, youth empowerment, and education to complement state-led initiatives.
“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, ” he added.
On his part, the Ugoani of Okpanam Kingdom, HRM Dr. Michael Mbanefo, also addressed the gathering and expressed appreciation for the Governor’s leadership and commitment to community development.
He described the road project as “a symbol of unity, connectivity, and growth” and pledged the continued support and cooperation of the Okpanam people for the Oborevwori-led administration.
Managing Director of Levant Construction Company, Engr. Elie Tannous, thanked the governor for entrusting the company with the project and assured that the firm would adhere strictly to specifications and timelines.
“We will execute the job within schedule and in strict adherence to quality standards,” Tannous assured, promising the company’s full commitment to delivering a road that meets public expectations.
The groundbreaking ceremony was witnessed by Deputy Governor Sir Monday Onyeme, top leaders of the All Progressives Congress including Chief Emma Eneukwu and Elder Omeni Sobotie, senior government officials, traditional rulers, and representatives of the contracting firm.
The event marks another significant step in Delta State’s ongoing drive to modernize infrastructure, improve regional connectivity, and deliver the benefits of development to all parts of the state under the MORE Agenda.
