₦39 Billion Ayakoromo Bridge: Delta Inspects Project, Reaffirms 2027 Delivery Target
THE Delta State Government has commended Setraco for its progress on the Ayakoromo Bridge across the River Forcados. However, it has urged the construction firm to intensify its efforts and deliver the project by December 2027.
The Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, gave the commendation on Thursday during an inspection of the project. He visited the construction site alongside engineers from the ministry.
Izeze acknowledged the difficult terrain and weather conditions confronting the contractor. Nevertheless, he said Setraco had made appreciable progress.
According to him, engineers from the ministry had confirmed that construction was proceeding in line with the approved schedule. He also expressed satisfaction with the quality of the engineering work.
“Setraco has done appreciably well, considering the weather and the terrain. However, there is still room for improvement. Our engineers have confirmed that work is progressing according to schedule, and the quality of engineering is encouraging,” he said.
The commissioner urged the contractor to sustain its efforts. He stressed that residents of Egbo-Ide in Ughelli South Local Government Area and Ayakoromo in Burutu Local Government Area needed the bridge as soon as possible.
Meanwhile, Izeze praised ministry engineers for maintaining effective supervision during his temporary absence. He called for continued monitoring to ensure that construction standards and delivery schedules remained intact.
“We hope Setraco will maintain the standards it is known for, keep to the agreed timeline and deliver a quality project that will serve the people,” he added.
Also speaking during the inspection, Setraco’s Project Manager, Nabil Chahiene, expressed confidence that the company would complete the bridge in December 2027.
“By His grace, the project will be completed in 2027,” he said.
The state government awarded the contract on 16 December 2022, at a cost of more than ₦39 billion. Upon completion, the bridge will connect Egbo-Ide and Ayakoromo communities across the River Forcados.
In addition, the project is expected to ease transportation difficulties, improve the movement of people and goods, and strengthen economic activities. It will also provide residents of the two communities and neighbouring areas with better access to essential services.
