Oborevwori flags off N39.3bn Otovwodo flyover project, promises end to Ughelli traffic gridlock

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta, on Monday inaugurated the N39.3 billion Otovwodo Flyover project in Ughelli, describing it as a permanent solution to the chronic traffic congestion at one of the state’s busiest junctions.

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, Oborevwori said the flyover represents a major milestone in his administration’s infrastructure agenda, which prioritized prudent resource allocation, durable road construction, and the development of urban and rural corridors for inclusive economic growth.

“Ughelli has grown rapidly as a commercial and educational hub, putting tremendous pressure on its road network, especially at the Otovwodo Junction along the East–West Road.

”The gridlock here costs commuters several productive hours every day. I have personally experienced the frustrations motorists face at this junction,” the governor said.

As a temporary measure, Oborevwori revealed that the state had invested nearly N6 billion in alternative routes, including Uduere Street, Okogbe Street, Oru Street, Edo Street, and Royal Avenue, to link Agbarha-Otor Road and ease traffic flow prior to the flyover’s construction.

The governor said the project, awarded to Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, is expected to be completed within 12 months, with the timeline described as “non-negotiable” given the junction’s strategic significance.

He outlined that the flyover would feature a multi-span reinforced concrete bridge with dual carriageways, roundabouts, and associated roadworks connecting the East–West Road to other arterial routes.

“This project will not only ease congestion and reduce travel time but also enhance safety and stimulate economic activity in the area,” Oborevwori noted.

Highlighting the project’s socio-economic impact, the governor said it would create thousands of direct and indirect jobs across the construction value chain.

He appealed to residents for patience and cooperation with traffic management measures during the construction period.

Oborevwori also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transparency and fiscal responsibility, emphasising that the project is being executed without borrowing.

He added that several completed projects across the state await commissioning, with more scheduled to be flagged off in 2026 under the “Renewed Hope for MORE” agenda.

In his remarks, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc Managing Director, Engr. Peer Lubasch, thanked the Delta State government for its trust in the company, describing the contract as recognition of its technical expertise.

Lubasch confirmed that the 15-span flyover would include dual carriageways, connecting roads, specialised drainage systems, and solar street lighting, assuring that construction would meet global standards and be delivered on schedule.

Following the groundbreaking, Oborevwori visited the Ovie of Ughelli Kingdom, HRM Wilson Ojakovo Oharisi III, and Chief Morrison Olori, founder and chairman of Ukodo Nation, where he reiterated his commitment to serving all Deltans.

Local leaders at the event, including Ughelli North Local Government Chairman, Hon. Jaro Egbo, and Ughelli Kingdom spokesman, Chief Peter Akpofure, lauded the flyover as a transformative initiative long awaited by residents.

They also appealed for additional internal roads and complementary infrastructure.

The ceremony was attended by the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Dennis Guwor; APC State Chairman Elder Omeni Sobotie; Members of the National Assembly, Hon. Francis Waive and Hon. Ngozi Okolie; senior government officials; traditional rulers; community leaders; and residents, who hailed the project as a decisive step toward ending traffic congestion in Ughelli.