Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has mandated Julius Berger Nigeria PLC to complete the 9.7-kilometer Ogbakiri Town road project within an eight-month timeframe, emphasizing the critical socio-economic benefits the road will bring to local communities. The project, which connects six communities from the Emohua spur on the East-West Road to the waterside at Egbelu-Oduoha-Ogbakiri, is valued at approximately N15 billion, with a 30 percent mobilization fee already disbursed.
Governor Fubara personally inspected the project site on Tuesday, assessing the route to the waterfront and outlining his administration’s commitment to infrastructure that significantly impacts residents’ lives. “We have already paid Julius Berger N4.5 billion as part of their mobilization to ensure swift progress,” Fubara noted. “They have assured us of completion within eight months, and I expect the same level of quality and dedication that they’ve shown in other areas.”
This inspection follows recent developments involving Julius Berger’s revoked contract for the Abuja-Kaduna road, a project that faced challenges over cost and timelines with the Federal Government. Fubara expressed confidence in Julius Berger’s ability to replicate its previous successes in the Ogbakiri project, adding that a future phase could include a bridge to connect riverine communities on the opposite side of the Egbelu-Oduoha-Ogbakiri axis.
Governor Fubara highlighted his administration’s commitment to impactful projects, stating, “This is not a short road. It is a 9.7-kilometer stretch, vital to improving connectivity and the lives of those in the area.” He also hinted at the potential for further connectivity developments once this phase is complete.
In addition to his site visit in Ogbakiri, Fubara stopped by the Captain Elechi Amadi Polytechnic near Port Harcourt, where significant projects like the Entrepreneurship Centre, Staff Office, and Senate Building are underway. He commended the institution’s governing council for their dedication to advancing educational facilities, which aligns with his broader vision of supporting the people through comprehensive infrastructure development.
