Oborevwori Demands Speed, Quality As He Inspects Major Delta Road Projects In Ugbolu, Okpanam, Oko
DELTA State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has restated his commitment to delivering durable road projects across the state, insisting that contractors must meet quality standards and complete jobs on schedule.
The Governor made the remarks on Tuesday during inspection visits to the ongoing 12.12km Ugbolu–Okpanam Road and Phase 2 of the Oko-Anala–Oko-Ogbele–Oko-Odifili Road project.
Oborevwori said he chose to personally inspect the projects to verify the level of work done, rather than rely solely on reports from engineers and supervising officials.
“I came to see things for myself. Follow-up is just as important as groundbreaking and commissioning,” he said.
The Governor recalled that he took a special interest in the Ugbolu–Okpanam road in July 2024 after residents raised concerns over persistent transportation challenges. The project officially commenced in October.
Although designed as an 18-month project, the contractor has assured that it will be completed by December this year.
Oborevwori explained that the road features double-sided concrete drains measuring 7.7 metres wide, with an 8-metre main carriageway and a total width of about 11 metres. He said the drainage system is a major component of the project due to frequent flooding in the area.
“Okpanam is on higher ground, so water flows to the lower areas and causes flooding. The new drains will channel water safely to the river. Residents will feel the difference during the rainy season,” he added.
He said the road is strategically important, linking Ugbolu and Okpanam communities and boosting economic activities between urban and semi-urban settlements.
At the second project site, Phase 2 of Oko-Anala – Oko-Ogbele – Oko-Odifulu Road project, Governor Oborevwori insisted on meaningful progress and adherence to timelines. He noted that Phase One of the project—about 4.7km—has been completed, while Phase Two, measuring roughly 5km, remains ongoing.
He described the terrain as difficult, explaining that large amounts of unsuitable clay soil had to be excavated to ensure a strong and lasting foundation.
“If the base is not properly stabilised, the road will fail,” he said.
The Governor rejected the contractor’s earlier projection of completing Phase Two by August 2027, stressing that such a delay would not be accepted.
He assured residents that the state government has released all necessary funds, adding that the contractor has been fully mobilised.
“There is no financial challenge. We expect the contractor to intensify work and finish before the end of this year or early next year. If contractors want more jobs from this administration, they must deliver quality work on time,” he said.
Reaffirming his administration’s policy direction, Oborevwori said:
“We believe in standards, and we will not compromise on quality.”
