Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Tuesday, performed the groundbreaking ceremony for the reconstruction of the Effurun–Sapele–Benin section of the East-West Road, a major federal road linking the state to other southern parts of the country in Uvwie and Okpe Local Government Areas of the state.
Describing the road project as a powerful symbol of renewed collaboration between the Federal and State Governments, Governor Oborevwori said the effort aligns with the infrastructure renewal goals of the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, executed in partnership with the Delta State Government.
“This project represents another major step forward in the infrastructure renewal drive of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government, in collaboration with the Delta State Government,” Oborevwori declared.
He described the Effurun-Benin Road as a vital national infrastructure that connects key cities across the South-South region and offers critical access to Edo and other parts of the country.
The flagged-off section, he explained, includes a dual carriageway with reinforced concrete pavement, widened shoulders, and a comprehensive storm-water drainage system – all designed to enhance durability and ensure the safety of commuters.
Governor Oborevwori noted that the project underscores the value of synergy between different tiers of government, stating: “Although this road is a federal route, the users are Deltans and Nigerians. Their safety and comfort matter most to us. Development is faster when governments work together in the interest of the people.”
He also disclosed that the Delta State Government has paid ₦10 billion in compensation to facilitate the access road project for the Second Niger Bridge, which aims to ease traffic congestion and improve connectivity between Asaba, Onitsha, and surrounding communities.
Lamenting the long-standing hardship faced by road users along the Effurun–Sapele–Benin axis, the governor said the reconstruction would not only improve mobility and reduce travel time but also boost economic activities across the region.
“Beyond these economic benefits, the project will also enhance security. Criminals often exploit bad roads. Once completed, this highway will make movement safer and improve the response capabilities of security agencies,” he added.
Reaffirming his commitment to peace, security, and infrastructure development, Governor Oborevwori emphasized that his administration is focused on leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.
He assured residents of Uvwie Kingdom that their requests regarding the Mother and Child Hospital and provision of a 500KVA transformer would be given due attention.
“At over sixty years of age, I am not in office for personal gain, but to leave lasting legacies. By the time I leave, I want Deltans to proudly say, ‘Oborevwori did this, Oborevwori did that,’” he said, before officially flagging off the project from the Effurun Roundabout, near the spare parts market, to after Ohore, before Ometan Bridge.
Delta State Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, described the project as the brainchild of Governor Oborevwori, whom he hailed as a visionary leader committed to transforming Delta’s infrastructure.
According to him, the 10-kilometre stretch covers five kilometres on each lane, featuring an 8.8-metre-wide carriageway — surpassing the standard 7.3 metres — a testament to the governor’s foresight.
He assured that the project would be completed within 12 months, marking another milestone achievement that will significantly enhance trade, transportation, and daily life in the state.
General Manager of China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), Engr. Thomas Feng, thanked Governor Oborevwori for the trust reposed in the company and pledged to deliver the project on schedule and to the highest standards.
“Today’s ceremony marks the beginning of a new era of infrastructure that will promote safer travel, stronger connectivity, and lasting economic growth for the people of Delta State,” Feng stated.
Earlier, Chairman of Uvwie Local Government Council, Chief Anthony Ofoni, joined by his Okpe counterpart, praised the governor’s people-centred leadership and announced that Airport Road in Effurun would be renamed “Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori Way” in honour of his achievements.
Also, Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom and Chairman of the Urhobo Council of Traditional Rulers, HRM Emmanuel Sideso, Abe I, commended the Governor Oborevwori’s administration for prioritising strategic infrastructure projects across Uvwie and the state.
He cited the ongoing construction of three flyovers and road expansions in his kingdom as game-changers that have significantly transformed the urban landscape and catalyzed economic activity.
Representative of the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, Okakuro Mike Afe, also praised the governor’s development strides and prayed for the successful completion of his tenure to consolidate the achievements of the MORE Agenda.
The event drew an array of dignitaries, including top government functionaries, traditional rulers, community leaders, and business executives, all united in hailing the project as a beacon of renewed hope and progress for Delta State and the wider Niger Delta region.
