Oborevwori defies rain to flag off ₦21.3bn Ugbolu–Okpanam road project

The groundbreaking ceremony for the ₦21.3 billion Ugbolu–Okpanam Road, earlier scheduled for October 7 but postponed due to heavy rainfall, was finally held on Thursday. And despite another downpour, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori defied the weather to personally flag off the project in Oshimili North Local Government Area, describing it as a major milestone in his administration’s aggressive infrastructure renewal drive under the MORE Agenda.

Speaking at the ceremony in Ugbolu, the Governor said the 12-kilometre road represents his administration’s determination to build durable and sustainable infrastructure that promotes economic growth and improves living standards across Delta State. “Today’s groundbreaking marks another significant milestone in furtherance of this administration’s MORE Agenda. Our plan is anchored on the prudent allocation of resources toward delivering reliable, high-quality, and durable road infrastructure,” he said.

Oborevwori noted that the Ugbolu–Okpanam Road aligns with Goals 9 and 11 of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which promote resilient infrastructure and sustainable cities. He emphasized that good road networks remain vital to development by enhancing trade, access to markets, and investment opportunities while reducing poverty and unemployment.

He explained that the project would link Ugbolu and Okpanam communities, improve traffic flow in Asaba, and connect Ibusa and Akwukwu-Igbo through the newly commissioned Ibusa–Okpanam Road. The road, he added, would also boost agricultural productivity, reduce crime, and expand socio-economic activities in Oshimili North.

The ₦21.3 billion contract, according to the Governor, has already received a 40 percent advance payment of ₦8.5 billion. He said the road will feature an 8-metre-wide asphaltic pavement, 1.5-metre hard shoulders on both sides, and more than 27,000 metres of reinforced concrete drains with stormwater channels.

Oborevwori assured that his administration would not entertain contract variations or upward reviews, adding that certified payments are processed within five working days. “As of today, my administration is not owing any contractor, whether for inherited or newly awarded projects. We have maintained prompt payment within five days of certification to encourage timely completion,” he said.

The Governor urged Levant Construction Company, the contractor handling the project, to maintain its reputation for excellence and deliver within schedule. “Given their proven track record, I have no doubt they will deliver satisfactorily. By the grace of God, we shall all be here again to commission this strategic road to the glory of God and the benefit of humanity,” he stated.

Chairman of Oshimili North Local Government, Hon. Innocent Esewezie, praised Oborevwori for his steadfast commitment to infrastructural development, describing the Ugbolu–Okpanam Road as “a testament to the Governor’s transformative MORE Agenda.” He commended the Governor for fulfilling his promise to personally perform the ceremony despite the rain.

Also speaking, the Ugoani of Okpanam Kingdom, HRM Dr. Michael Mbanefo, lauded the Governor’s leadership and vision for community development, describing the project as “a symbol of unity, connectivity, and growth.” The event attracted top government officials, traditional rulers, community leaders, and representatives of Levant Construction Company, marking yet another stride in Delta State’s infrastructure transformation drive.