Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, officially inaugurated the N59.7 billion Agbor/Uromi Junction Flyover project on Monday in Agbor, Ika South Local Government Area.
During the groundbreaking ceremony, Governor Oborevwori emphasized that this critical initiative aims to improve road safety, protect lives, and stimulate economic activities both within the state and beyond.
He highlighted the urgent need for the flyover, which addresses persistent traffic congestion and frequent accidents at the busy Agbor/Uromi Junction, a location that has unfortunately claimed lives and caused property damage over the years.
The governor noted that the dangerous intersection, characterized by the heavy convergence of vehicles, motorcycles, and pedestrians, coupled with inadequate traffic management, necessitated a lasting solution.
He announced that the contract for the design and construction of the flyover has been awarded to Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, with a completion timeline set at 14 months.
The project encompasses a 1.3-kilometre flyover bridge along the Uromi–Agbor Highway, including dual carriageways with two lanes in each direction, ramps, roundabouts, concrete drainage systems, kerbs, and solar-powered streetlights designed to enhance safety and sustainability.
Accompanied by Deputy Governor Sir Monday Onyeme and other senior government officials, Governor Oborevwori stressed the strategic importance of the corridor, which serves as a vital economic and transportation link between the Eastern and Western parts of the Niger Delta, while also functioning as a gateway to the North.
“Anyone traveling from Lagos to the East, or from the East to the West, must pass through this route. Its importance to the national economy cannot be overstated,” he stated.
Upon completion, the flyover is expected to significantly enhance mobility, reduce travel times, and expand economic opportunities, thereby safeguarding the lives of thousands of Nigerians who use the route daily.
Additionally, the governor pointed out that the project would create numerous employment opportunities for engineers, artisans, laborers, transporters, and food vendors throughout the construction value chain.
Reiterating his administration’s commitment to inclusive and balanced development, Oborevwori disclosed that the state government has allocated N100 billion as a special intervention fund, designating N4 billion to each of the 25 local government areas for infrastructure development, alongside investments in other key sectors.
Ika South Local Government Area is also set to benefit from other major projects, including a N15.4 billion contract for 13.3 kilometres of concrete drainage systems and five kilometres of road construction aimed at addressing flooding and erosion, as well as a planned N12 billion upgrade of the 15-kilometre Okpe–Abavo–Ekuku-Agbor Road.
“As a government, we award contracts strictly on merit and competence. Excellence will always attract further patronage,” the governor assured, expressing confidence that the flyover will be completed on schedule.
Former Governor Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa lauded the Agbor/Uromi Junction Flyover as a monumental project, praising Governor Oborevwori for sustaining continuity and transforming plans into tangible development.
He acknowledged that the scale and distribution of infrastructure projects under the current administration reflect purposeful and people-oriented governance.
In addition, he commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for ongoing economic reforms that, while initially challenging, aim to guide Nigeria toward a sustainable future.
Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, referred to Governor Oborevwori as an audacious and diligent leader, reminding the Ika Nation of the significant infrastructure undertakings executed by the administration and urging continued support for the governor.
Mr. Frederich Weiser, representing the management and Board of Directors of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, expressed gratitude to the Delta State Government for their trust in awarding the project.
He committed to delivering the flyover with the highest standards of quality, safety, and efficiency, and to completing it on schedule with minimal disruption, drawing on their extensive experience with similar projects in the state.
Chairman of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Mr. Chiedu Ebie, assured the commission’s readiness to collaborate with the Delta State Government in completing the Abraka–Obiaruku–Abavo–Agbor Road, a crucial feeder route to the new flyover.
Engr. Jerry Ehiwarior, Chairman of Ika South Local Government, hailed the flyover as a “project of destiny” and thanked Governor Oborevwori for his action-driven leadership, which includes the restoration of electricity to communities that had been without power for over 14 years.
Other notable speakers, including Hon. Victor Nwokolo, member representing Ika Federal Constituency; APC National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Felix Morka; HRM Benjamin Ikechukwu, Dein of Agbor Kingdom; and Prof. Onyemaechi Ugboh, President-General of Agbor Community Union, all commended Governor Oborevwori for his extensive infrastructure initiatives and pledged their unwavering support.
