Delta Finalises Plans For ECN/Otu-Jeremi/Udu Road Reconstruction
THE Delta State Government has concluded arrangements for the commencement of the rehabilitation and reconstruction of the ECN/Otu-Jeremi/Udu Road following a strategic stakeholders’ meeting involving government officials, the project contractor and representatives of host communities.
The meeting, held at the office of the Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, brought together officials of Niger Cat Construction Limited, government representatives and community leaders to harmonise plans ahead of the contractor’s mobilisation to site.
The engagement was aimed at ensuring the smooth execution of the road project through collaboration, effective communication and community support.
Addressing participants, Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for approving the rehabilitation and reconstruction of the road, describing the project as another demonstration of the administration’s commitment to expanding infrastructure and improving the quality of life of Deltans.
He noted that the road serves as a vital transportation corridor linking communities in Ughelli South and Udu Local Government Areas, adding that its reconstruction would stimulate economic activities, facilitate trade and enhance mobility across the area.
The commissioner urged Niger Cat Construction Limited to deliver the project within the agreed timeframe while maintaining the highest engineering standards.
Izeze stressed the importance of maintaining cordial relations between the contractor and host communities throughout the construction period, noting that peaceful cooperation would be critical to the successful delivery of the project.
To strengthen communication, he announced the appointment of a Special Project Coordinator and introduced community representatives who will serve as liaison officers between the government, the contractor and the host communities.
According to him, representatives from both Ughelli South and Udu Local Government Areas will work closely with project officials to promptly resolve issues that may arise during implementation.
The commissioner further disclosed that government officials and the management of Niger Cat Construction Limited would pay courtesy visits to the traditional rulers of the affected communities next Wednesday to formally seek their cooperation and blessings before major construction activities commence.
He also advised the contractor to engage qualified technical personnel while ensuring that employment opportunities and other legitimate interests of the host communities receive due consideration.
Project Manager of Niger Cat Construction Limited, Engineer George, described the meeting as productive, saying it provided an opportunity to address key concerns before mobilisation to the project site.
“It was a very productive meeting. We discussed the commencement of the project and resolved the major issues before moving to the site. The aim is to ensure that every challenge is addressed before work begins. We appreciate His Excellency for the support,” he said.
Community representative, Olorogun Godwin Sito, also welcomed the outcome of the engagement, expressing confidence that the agreed framework would strengthen cooperation among all stakeholders.
He pledged to work with community leaders across Ughelli South and Udu to maintain peace and ensure the successful completion of the project.
Upon completion, the rehabilitation and reconstruction of the ECN/Otu-Jeremi/Udu Road is expected to improve connectivity between communities in Ughelli South and Udu Local Government Areas, facilitate the movement of people and goods, reduce travel time and promote socio-economic development across the corridor.
