Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Wednesday reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to ensure balanced infrastructural development across all parts of the state, with special emphasis on the riverine communities.
The Governor spoke at the official inauguration of the newly reconstructed 12.1-kilometre Odimodi–Okuntu–Ogulagha Road in Burutu Local Government Area, describing the project as a landmark intervention that reconnects communities long separated by the Niger Delta’s challenging terrain.
“This road is a testament to our commitment to equity and development,” Oborevwori said. “The excitement on the faces of our people today shows that we are meeting their expectations. When I visited this place and saw the deplorable state of the old SPDC road, I made up my mind that it must be rebuilt. Today, to the glory of God, we are here to commission it.”
The Governor, who emphasized that the project was executed to the highest engineering standards, commended the contractors and supervising engineers for their diligence and adherence to quality.
He reiterated that his administration maintains a zero-debt policy with contractors to ensure timely delivery of projects.
“In Delta State, we don’t owe contractors. We pay promptly for verified work done. That’s why you won’t find abandoned projects here. Contractors are always eager to work in Delta because they know we keep our word,” he stated.
Oborevwori noted that his government has continued to complete inherited projects while initiating new ones, citing the groundbreaking of the Warri–Sapele–Benin Road section, the Otovwodo Flyover in Ughelli, and the proposed Uromi Junction Flyover in Agbor, among others.
He assured riverine dwellers that more projects—ranging from roads and bridges to schools and shore protection works—were underway, stressing that the region’s contribution to the nation’s oil wealth justifies its fair share of infrastructural development.
“Our riverine communities deserve the best. This road will ease movement, boost trade and fishing, and improve the economic well-being of our people,” the Governor said.
In his goodwill message, the Member representing Burutu Federal Constituency, Hon. Julius Pondi, hailed the Governor for his inclusive governance and pledged the continued support of his constituents.
“Your Excellency, Burutu will always speak through results. You can count on our full support,” he assured.
Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, described the project as a bold statement of the Governor’s commitment to bridging developmental gaps. He said the road was designed with pavement widths ranging from 6.5 to 10 metres, reinforced drainage, and flood-resistant culverts suitable for the difficult terrain.
Similarly, Chairman of Burutu Local Government Area, Hon. Julius Takeme, lauded the Governor’s sustained attention to the area through projects such as the Kiagbodo Technical College and the Ayakoromo Bridge. He appealed for the construction of an access road to Burutu town, the only local government headquarters in the country without a road link.
Also speaking, Chairman of Ogulagha Community, Comrade Bright Guwor, described the new road as both a physical and symbolic link that will foster unity, economic growth, and improved living standards.
The commissioning ceremony was attended by the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor; his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Arthur Akpowowo; the House Leader, Engr. Emeka Nwaobi; other legislators, political appointees, community leaders, and jubilant residents who hailed the project as a milestone achievement under the Oborevwori administration’s “MORE Agenda” for development and prosperity.
