Residents of Warri and Effurun, the commercial hub of Delta State, have expressed their joy and gratitude to Govl Sheriff Oborevwori for approving the award of contract worth N78 billion to Julius Berger Nigeria Limited for the construction of three flyover bridges, one cloverleaf and road expansion works within the metropolis.
The approval, which was announced by the State Executive Council on Sept. 12, was in fulfillment of the governor’s promise to give Warri and Effurun a face-lift and transform the infrastructure and economy of the twin cities.
The residents, who have endured years of neglect, decay and dilapidated infrastructure, said the governor’s move was a welcome development that would ease the traffic congestion and enhance the business activities in the area, Vanguard Nigeria has reported.
The metropolis, which is signposted by bad roads, unkempt environment and protracted traffic, has become a source of worry to the people. The previous administration of Dr Ifeanyi Okowa could not do much in Warri and Effurun due to the construction of storm water drains to curb flooding in the area. Although he was able to complete the widening of the Effurun Sapele Road before leaving office, he left many other roads in a deplorable state.
During his electioneering campaigns, Oborevwori made it clear that Warri and Effurun would be given special attention under his administration. He reiterated this pledge in his inauguration speech on May 29 saying that he would commence efforts at giving Warri and its environs a total facelift. He also said that he would expedite the ongoing rehabilitation work on the Warri Township Stadium.
The governor made good his promise to the people of Warri and Uvwie when he approved the contracts for three flyovers, one cloverleaf and road expansion works within the metropolis. The contracts include:
- The design and construction of flyover bridge from Enerhen junction to Marine Gate
- The study, design and construction of road expansion and improvement works on the section of the DSC/NPA Expressway from Effurun roundabout to DSC roundabout including construction of a 3/4 Cloverleaf interchange at the existing Effurun flyover bridge as well as two pedestrian bridges
- The design and construction of flyover bridge at PTI junction and DSC roundabout along the Effurun/Patani, East-West highway, Effurun
The Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, said the justification for choosing Julius Berger was due to their experience and competitive pricing in relation to the quality of works and timely delivery of projects.
The Commissioner for Finance, Chief Fidelis Tilije, said the contract was worth N78 billion while the state government would make 25 percent advance payment of N19.5 billion with the balance paid through an ISPO for 30 months.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Works, Engr Fred Edafiogho, said the approval of the contracts was aimed at solving the gridlock often experienced in the twin cities. He said that the road expansion works on the DSC/NPA Expressway will provide two lanes of restricted carriageway at the centre for through-traffic and another two lanes of service road in each travel direction bring the current capacity of the road from four lanes to eight lanes.
The residents of Warri and Effurun have commended the governor for his visionary leadership and his commitment to developing their area. They said they are looking forward to seeing the completion of the projects and enjoying their benefits. They also appealed to the contractor to deliver quality work within schedule and without compromising standards.
Source: vanguardngr.com
