Major Road, Bridge Project To Transform Ndokwa East
THE Delta State Government has commenced construction of the long-awaited 10.1-kilometre Aboh–Akarai Road, including a bridge across the Okiri River, in Ndokwa East Local Government Area. The project is valued at ₦29.8 billion.
The Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, announced the commencement during an inspection of the project site alongside top officials of the Ministry of Works.
Izeze said the road would provide a direct link between Akarai and Aboh, ending years of dependence on river transport for movement of people and goods. He noted that the difficult terrain in Ndokwa East has historically limited economic growth, despite the area’s rich agricultural and fishing potential.
“This project will allow the people of Akarai to access Aboh by road for the first time. It will improve business, enhance mobility and change livelihoods,” he said.
The Commissioner explained that the project aligns with Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s MORE Agenda, which seeks to create opportunities for all residents, regardless of geography.
He disclosed that the bridge design was upgraded from five to seven spans to ensure it can withstand flooding, with the 2012 flood level used as a benchmark for resilience.
Izeze added that bush clearing had been completed and that contractors had returned to site after the Christmas holidays. He said piling would commence once water levels drop further, expressing confidence in steady progress.
The project engineer, Lichaa Geagea, confirmed that access roads to the bridge abutments had been opened and that preparations for batching plants and other facilities were ongoing. He said heavy equipment would arrive before month-end, with piling scheduled for next month.
The Aboh–Akarai Road and Okiri River Bridge are expected to enhance connectivity, stimulate economic activities and integrate riverine communities more fully into Delta State’s development framework.
