Rivers State Governor Sir Siminalayi Fubara has given construction giant Julius Berger Nigeria PLC a marching order to complete the crucial 9.7-kilometer Ogbakiri-Egbelu dual carriageway within eight months. This ambitious project, costing about N15 billion, holds transformative potential for the socio-economic landscape of Rivers State, connecting six communities from Emohua on the East-West Road-Tema Junction to Egbelu-Oduoha-Ogbakiri’s waterside areas.
As he toured the construction zone on Tuesday, Governor Fubara explained that his administration had already paid 30 percent of the project’s mobilization fee, amounting to N4.5 billion, to ensure that work could proceed without delay. “If you look at the center stretch of the road leading toward Tema in Kalabari, Julius Berger has already begun,” he observed. “It was only right to have them bring that quality of work to this side, ensuring uniformity in infrastructure for all.” The governor assured residents that they could expect the road to be delivered within the promised timeframe, a crucial asset that will ease access, trade, and connectivity across the region.
Governor Fubara’s dedication to infrastructure goes beyond roads. He hinted at plans for a river-crossing bridge to further link Ogbakiri with adjacent riverine communities. Standing on the waterfront, he expressed his intention to connect communities on both sides of the river, a vision that promises to usher in an era of unprecedented connectivity for the area. “This isn’t just a short stretch of road; this is a substantial 9.7-kilometer artery meant to improve lives,” Fubara emphasized. “We promised our people projects that impact lives, and we are following through.”
But the governor’s resolve does not stop at infrastructure alone. After his road inspection, he visited Captain Elechi Amadi Polytechnic in Rumuola, where significant development projects are underway. With strategic improvements in education as part of his core agenda, Governor Fubara is championing projects that include a state-of-the-art Entrepreneurship Centre, new staff office buildings, and the long-awaited completion of the Senate Building, which has been stalled for eight years. He underscored the importance of the Entrepreneurship Centre as a crucial facility for training students in job-ready skills, making them productive assets in the state’s economic landscape.
Fubara’s commitment to educational infrastructure reflects a broader vision to uplift the state’s human capital. “Our work is not limited to road networks; we are investing in education for the future of Rivers State,” he declared. “From accommodation to office blocks and the Senate Building, we’ve ensured funds are allocated, with 50 percent of the costs already released.”
The governor was visibly pleased with the progress, commending the polytechnic’s Governing Council for its dedication to reshaping the institution and reaffirming his administration’s support for educational reforms. He assured the council of his continued support, not only to fulfill current projects but to foster a sustainable foundation for growth across Rivers State.
