In response to mounting concerns regarding the deplorable state of federal roads in Delta State, the government has sprung into action. This momentous decision was unveiled during the State Executive Council Meeting on Tuesday, September 12, 2023.
Commissioner for Works in charge of Rural and Riverine Roads, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, announced the approval for remedial work on critical federal roads, with a particular spotlight on the Asaba-Benin Expressway and Agbor-Eku Road. The State Executive Council has directed the Ministries of Works (Highways and Rural Roads) to execute essential measures to enhance the usability of these roads.
This development follows a growing public outcry, prominently spearheaded by the Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF), which highlighted the deteriorating condition of federal roads in the state, primarily the Agbor-Obiaruku-Abraka-Eku Federal Road.
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Mr. Aniagwu reiterated the government’s commitment to alleviating the hardships faced by Delta residents due to poorly maintained federal roads, stating, “We are fully aware of the challenges faced by our citizens due to the deplorable state of these federal roads. Our government is resolute in taking action to ameliorate their suffering.”
The State Executive Council also gave the green light to projects aimed at tackling traffic congestion and improving infrastructure within the Warri/Effurun megalopolis, with an estimated value of N78 billion. Julius Berger Nigeria Limited has been awarded these contracts, which encompass the construction of three elevated flyover bridges and extensive road expansion.
The Projects Include:
1. Enerhen Junction to Marine Gate Flyover: Design and construction of a flyover bridge at Enerhen junction to Marine Gate.
2. DSC/NPA Expressway Expansion: Road expansion and improvement works from Effurun roundabout to DSC roundabout, including a 3/4 Cloverleaf interchange at Effurun Flyover Bridge and two pedestrian bridges.
3. PTI Junction and DSC Roundabout Flyover: Design and construction of a flyover bridge at PTI junction and DSC roundabout along the Effurun/Patani, East-West highway in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area.
The expansion of the DSC/NPA Expressway will notably enhance traffic flow by providing two lanes of restricted carriageway at the center for through-traffic and two additional lanes of service road in each travel direction. This will increase the road’s capacity from four lanes to eight lanes. Drainage systems will also be incorporated to manage stormwater, along with cloverleaf interchanges and U-turns to facilitate unimpeded traffic flow.
These four vital projects are slated for completion within 27 months, with an estimated finish date in December 2025.
Governor Oborevwori’s Vision
Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, emphasized that Governor Oborevwori’s commitment to revitalizing Warri/Uvwie was a driving force behind these approvals. Julius Berger was chosen based on its track record of experience, competitive pricing, and punctual project delivery.
The total value of the projects stands at N78 billion, with the state government initiating an advance payment of N19.5 billion, followed by the balance being paid through an Infrastructure-Based Public Private Partnership (ISPO) spread over 30 months.