Governor of Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori, has restated his administration’s resolve to deliver durable infrastructure and ensure timely completion of projects across the state, following inspection visits to the ongoing Ugbolu–Okpanam Road and Phase 2 of the Oko-Anala – Oko-Ogbele – Oko-Odifili Road.
Speaking while inspecting the 12.12-kilometre Ugbolu–Okpanam Road on Tuesday, the governor said the visit was to personally verify the level of work done rather than depend solely on technical reports.
“I did not just come here casually; I came to personally inspect and see for myself the level of work,” he said, stressing that monitoring is as critical as groundbreaking and commissioning ceremonies.
He recalled that the project came under serious consideration around July last year following persistent transportation challenges faced by residents along the axis, with the groundbreaking ceremony later held in October.
Although the original completion timeline is 18 months, Oborevwori disclosed that the contractor has assured the state government the project would be delivered by December this year.
The governor explained that the road is being constructed with 7.7-metre-wide concrete drainage channels on both sides, bringing the total width to about 11 metres, with an 8-metre carriageway.
He noted that the drainage component is vital due to the flooding history in the area, explaining that Okpanam’s higher elevation causes heavy water runoff into adjoining communities.
According to him, the ongoing construction of extensive drainage networks will channel floodwater safely to the river and significantly reduce the perennial flooding residents experience.
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“Some of the previous drain systems were either single or double but not adequate to handle the volume of water. We are ensuring that this drainage infrastructure is comprehensive and durable. Residents will notice the difference during the rainy season,” he stated.
Describing the road as strategically significant, the governor said it would strengthen connectivity between Ugbolu and Okpanam, stimulate socio-economic activities and foster integration between urban and semi-urban settlements.
He emphasized that his administration remains committed to balanced development, noting that infrastructure investments are being distributed across local government areas.
“We are not only constructing flyovers and roads in urban centres; we are also extending infrastructure to rural communities. Development must be balanced,” he said.
At the Phase 2 site of the Oko-Anala – Oko-Ogbele – Oko-Odifili Road, Oborevwori reiterated his demand for visible progress and strict adherence to delivery timelines.
He explained that the project was divided into phases, with Phase One covering about 4.7 kilometres already completed, while Phase Two spans roughly five kilometres.
The governor described the terrain as highly challenging, revealing that large deposits of unsuitable clay soil had to be excavated to guarantee structural stability.
“If you do not properly remove unsuitable soil and stabilise the base before filling, the road will not last,” he warned.
He disclosed that the contractor initially proposed August 2027 for completion of Phase Two, a timeline he rejected.
Oborevwori assured residents that the state government has fully mobilised the contractor and provided the necessary funding, stressing that there are no financial constraints affecting the project.
He charged the contractor to accelerate work and deliver the project before the end of the year or early next year.
“If contractors want more jobs from this administration, they must deliver quality work and complete projects on time,” he said.
Reaffirming his administration’s development philosophy, the governor declared: “We believe in standards, and we will not compromise on quality.”
