Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Tuesday, flagged off the reconstruction of the Warri–Sapele–Benin Dual Carriageway, describing the initiative as a testament to strengthened collaboration between the Federal and State Governments for the collective good of Nigerians.
The groundbreaking ceremony, held in Uvwie and Okpe Local Government Areas, marked what the governor called “another major step forward in the infrastructure renewal drive of the Renewed Hope Agenda,” jointly executed by both tiers of government.
Oborevwori highlighted the strategic importance of the Warri–Sapele–Benin Road, noting that it serves as a vital transport corridor linking major South-South cities and facilitating access to Edo State and beyond.
“The section being reconstructed comprises a dual carriageway with reinforced concrete pavement, widened shoulders, and comprehensive stormwater drainage systems—all designed to enhance durability and safety,” the governor stated.
He commended the Federal Government for its willingness to collaborate, stressing that meaningful development happens faster when both levels of government align their efforts.
“Though this is a federal road, its users are Deltans and Nigerians. Their safety and comfort are our utmost priority,” he said.
Oborevwori also revealed that the state government had paid ₦10 billion in compensation to ensure progress on the ongoing Second Niger Bridge access road project, aimed at easing traffic congestion and improving connectivity around Asaba, Onitsha, and neighboring communities.
The governor decried the years of hardship endured by motorists and transporters on the Warri–Sapele–Benin route, describing the reconstruction as a long-awaited relief that would boost mobility, reduce travel time, and stimulate economic activity.
“Beyond its economic impact, the project will enhance security. Criminals often take advantage of bad roads to perpetrate crimes. When completed, this highway will make travel safer and improve the response time of security agencies,” he noted.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to peace and infrastructural renewal, Oborevwori pledged to continue investing in projects that promote safety, development, and prosperity.
He also promised to address requests from the people of Uvwie Kingdom concerning the Mother and Child Hospital and the installation of a 500KVA transformer.
“At my age, I am not in government for personal gain but to leave lasting legacies. When I leave office, I want Deltans to proudly say, ‘Oborevwori did this; Oborevwori did that,’” he added before officially flagging off the project from Effurun Roundabout near the Spare Parts Market to after Ohore, before Ometan Bridge.
Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, lauded the governor’s vision, describing him as a leader determined to redefine the state’s infrastructure landscape.
“This 10-kilometre project, stretching five kilometres on each side, features an 8.8-metre-wide carriageway on both lanes—significantly wider than the standard 7.3 metres,” Izeze explained, adding that completion is expected within 12 months.
In his remarks, the General Manager of China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), Engr. Thomas Feng, thanked the governor for entrusting the project to the firm.
“Today’s groundbreaking heralds a new era of infrastructure development that will promote safer travel, stronger connectivity, and sustainable economic growth for Delta State,” Feng assured.
