Delta State Commissioner for Riverine Infrastructure Development, Chief Ebikeme Clark, has described the completion of internal road projects in Kantu and Ijaghala communities in Gbaramatu Kingdom as a major milestone in the state government’s efforts to bridge the infrastructure gap in riverine areas.
Clark spoke during a final inspection of the projects executed by an indigenous construction firm, Ponkebi Nigeria Limited, in Warri South-West Local Government Area.
The projects comprise concrete rigid pavement roads and drainage infrastructure designed to improve movement within the communities and address some of the environmental challenges associated with the riverine terrain.
The Commissioner said the intervention had brought a new dimension to development in communities that had historically struggled with poor internal access roads.
According to him, residents had for years contended with difficult movement within and between the communities, limiting economic activities and worsening the effects of flooding and erosion.
«“Historically, these communities have never enjoyed internal roads. What we are witnessing today is a major transformation and a clear demonstration of the Governor’s commitment to bringing development to the riverine areas,” Clark said.»
He explained that the completed roads would facilitate the movement of residents and goods, improve connectivity and provide a more conducive environment for businesses and other economic activities to thrive.
Clark also highlighted the long-standing peaceful coexistence between Ijaw and Itsekiri communities in the area, expressing confidence that improved infrastructure would further deepen relations and promote shared economic opportunities.
He commended residents for their support and appreciation of the projects, assuring that the state government remained committed to addressing the peculiar infrastructural needs of communities located in difficult riverine terrain.
The Commissioner expressed particular appreciation to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for prioritising riverine development, noting that the projects went beyond the construction of roads.
«“This is not just about roads; it is about connecting our people, opening up opportunities and ensuring that no community is left behind in the development of the state,” he said.»
He said the projects were consistent with the administration’s broader development agenda aimed at extending infrastructure and other government interventions to communities across Delta State.
Meanwhile, residents of Kantu and Ijaghala expressed appreciation to the governor for approving and completing the projects, describing the intervention as a significant improvement in their quality of life.
Those who spoke included Chief Arthur Iyagu, Ibibio Ezekiel, Elder Samson Menekoko, Woman Leader of Ijaghala Community, Mrs Renieri Grace, Mr Okoturu Edwin and Toju Ebitor.
The residents said the roads had transformed the physical outlook of the communities while also helping to tackle longstanding problems associated with flooding, erosion and difficult movement.
They recalled that the absence of internal roads had made transportation within the communities cumbersome and restricted access to neighbouring settlements.
The community leaders pledged continued support for the Oborevwori administration, saying the completed projects had provided tangible evidence of government’s presence at the grassroots and given residents renewed confidence in the development of their communities.
