Ughelli: Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta has unveiled the construction of the ?39.3 billion Otovwodo Flyover project in Ughelli North Local Government Area of the state. Speaking on Monday at the groundbreaking ceremony, the governor said that the project would bring an end to the protracted traffic congestion at the ever-busy Otovwodo Junction.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Oborevwori stated that the project was a major milestone in his administration’s infrastructure renewal drive. He added that the project aligned with his leadership agenda of prudent resource allocation, durable road construction, and the opening up of urban and rural corridors for inclusive growth.
The governor emphasized that Ughelli was a historic, commercial, and educational hub, noting that the town had witnessed rapid population growth, which placed enormous pressure on its road network. He mentioned that the Otovwodo Junction had become notorious for gridlocks, costing commuters several productive hours daily.
Oborevwori announced that the project, awarded to Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, was expected to be completed within 12 months, declaring that the timeline was non-negotiable due to the strategic importance of the junction. ‘The project includes a multi-span reinforced concrete bridge with dual carriageways, roundabouts, and associated roadworks linking the East-West Road with other arterial routes. The flyover will ease congestion, reduce travel time, improve safety, and boost economic activities. The project will also generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs across the construction value chain,’ he said.
The governor urged residents to be patient and comply with traffic directives during the construction period. Oborevwori assured that the state would continue to execute major projects without borrowing, adding that several completed projects across the state were awaiting inauguration.
Earlier, Mr. Peer Lubasch, the Managing Director of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, appreciated the state government for the confidence reposed in the company. Lubasch said that the 15-span flyover would feature a dual carriageway, connecting roads, specialized drainage systems, and solar street lighting.