Residents of Orere and neighbouring riverine communities in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State have entered a new phase of improved connectivity as vehicles officially commenced movement across the long-awaited Orere Bridge, marking a significant milestone in the administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.
The development represents a major breakthrough in the state’s infrastructure renewal drive, effectively ending decades of transportation hardship that had compelled residents to rely on canoes for river crossing.
The multi-billion-naira project, currently at about 82.25 per cent completion, comprises a 500-metre bridge spanning the Orere River, alongside 4.36 kilometres of access roads and linkages, including a spur into Orere Town. The contract was awarded in 2021.
During an inspection visit to the project on Thursday, the Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, expressed satisfaction with the level of progress achieved, commending Governor Oborevwori for sustaining momentum on the project.
Accompanied by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Engr. Solomon Aghagba, and other senior officials, Izeze described the decision to award the project to an indigenous contractor, Obakpor J.U. Construction Limited, as a strategic and rewarding choice.
He noted that the bridge had faced a long and difficult journey, at some point appearing uncertain of completion, but said the governor’s confidence in the contractor had now yielded visible results.
“Today, we are here and can proudly inform the world that, for the first time in history, vehicles are driving into Orere. SUVs, saloon cars and heavy-duty vehicles now have access. As of today, June 4, 2026, this has become a reality,” he stated.
The commissioner, who previously represented the constituency in the Delta State House of Assembly, also acknowledged the role of former Governor Senator Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa in initiating and approving the project.
According to him, the bridge was conceived in response to longstanding demands by riverine communities seeking improved access, economic integration, and mobility.
Izeze commended Governor Oborevwori for sustaining inherited projects across the state, noting that the contract was reviewed to reflect prevailing economic conditions while ensuring consistent funding despite fiscal pressures.
He attributed delays in execution largely to persistent rainfall over the past three years, which he described as a natural constraint that slowed construction activities.
Nonetheless, he expressed optimism that the remaining stages of the project would be completed in line with engineering standards and without further setbacks.
He urged the contractor to accelerate work while maintaining quality assurance, stressing that the administration would not compromise standards in its delivery of public infrastructure.
“Having demonstrated capacity and competence on this project, I expect the contractor to further increase the pace so it can be completed and commissioned in the near future,” he added.
Chairman of Obakpor J.U. Construction Limited, Chief John Oguma, assured that the project would be fully completed and ready for commissioning before December 2026.
Meanwhile, the development has been widely welcomed by residents of Orere community.
Former Chairman of Orere Community, Mr. Lucky Eyasuile, praised Governor Oborevwori for turning what was once considered an impossible project into reality, describing the achievement as historic.
Commercial motorcyclists, including Freedom Ovwigho and Prince Meleghe, alongside resident Endurance Emefe, said the commencement of vehicular movement across the bridge marked a defining moment for the community.
They noted that the development had brought relief and excitement to residents, who for years depended on canoe transportation to cross the river.
The residents expressed optimism that full completion of the project would further open up economic opportunities and strengthen access to surrounding communities.
With vehicular movement now underway, the Orere Bridge stands as one of the most significant infrastructure achievements in Delta State’s riverine belt and a clear indication of ongoing efforts to improve connectivity and rural development.
