Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to quality infrastructure and prompt delivery during inspections of major road projects across Delta State.
The projects include the Ugbolu–Okpanam Road and Phase Two of the Oko-Anala–Oko-Ogbele–Oko-Odifili Road corridor, both considered critical to easing movement and boosting economic activities.
Inspecting the 12.12-kilometre Ugbolu–Okpanam Road on Tuesday, the governor said he chose to personally assess the pace and quality of work instead of relying solely on engineers’ reports.
He stressed that project supervision must go beyond groundbreaking and commissioning ceremonies, insisting that consistent follow-up ensures contractors meet agreed standards.
Oborevwori explained that he prioritised the Ugbolu–Okpanam project in July last year after residents repeatedly complained about traffic bottlenecks and poor accessibility along the route.
The groundbreaking ceremony was later conducted in October, setting the stage for full-scale construction.
Although the initial completion timeline was 18 months, the contractor has assured the government that work will be finalised by December this year.
The governor revealed that the road features extensive drainage infrastructure, including wide concrete channels on both sides and an expanded carriageway to improve durability.
He noted that flooding has long plagued surrounding communities because Okpanam lies on elevated terrain, forcing heavy runoff into lower areas during the rainy season.
According to him, the newly designed drainage system will redirect stormwater safely to nearby rivers, significantly reducing perennial flooding.
He observed that older drainage structures in the area were inadequate, failing to accommodate the volume of water generated during heavy rainfall.
Describing the road as strategic, Oborevwori said it would strengthen connectivity between Ugbolu and Okpanam while promoting trade, mobility and social integration.
He emphasised that his administration is committed to balanced development across urban and rural communities, not concentrating infrastructure solely in city centres.
At the Phase Two section of the Oko-Anala–Oko-Ogbele–Oko-Odifili Road, the governor reiterated his insistence on strict adherence to timelines.
He said Phase One, covering about 4.7 kilometres, had been completed, while the remaining five-kilometre stretch presents more engineering challenges.
Oborevwori disclosed that unstable clay soil had to be excavated and replaced to guarantee a solid foundation and long-lasting pavement.
He rejected the contractor’s initial projection of August 2027 for completion, directing that the work be concluded before year-end or early next year.
The governor assured residents that the state government had fully mobilised the contractor and provided necessary funding, ruling out financial constraints.
He warned that contractors seeking future engagements must demonstrate competence by delivering quality projects within agreed schedules.
Reaffirming his policy direction, Oborevwori declared that his administration would not compromise on standards.
Meanwhile, Oborevwori also approved the appointment of Chief Kakor Ese as Director-General of the Delta State Local Content Agency.
He further named Mr. Okoh Sabastine as Managing Director of the Delta State Structure for Signage and Advertisement Agency.
In a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley Eze Emu, the swearing-in ceremony was scheduled for February 19, 2026.
The event would take place at Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba, with invited guests expected to be seated before 9:30 a.m.
