Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori braved heavy rainfall on Oct. 16, to flag off the 12-kilometre Ugbolu-Okpanam road project in Oshimili North Local Government Area. The ceremony had been postponed from the previous week due to bad weather.
Speaking at the event in Ugbolu, the governor said the project costs about ₦21.3 billion, with the government already paying ₦8.5 billion—40 percent—as advance to the contractor. He noted that this shows his administration’s push for infrastructure under the M.O.R.E. Agenda, linking to goals nine and 11 of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
“Road infrastructure is a core need that is always in demand. A well-developed road is a catalyst for economic growth; it makes movement of goods and services easier and cuts transport costs,” the governor said.
He added that the Ugbolu-Okpanam road will link key areas, boost business, and improve life for residents in fast-growing communities near the state capital. The road will have drainages on both sides, and the government will not allow any cost increases or changes.
Governor Oborevwori urged the contractor, Levant Construction Company, to finish the job quickly, promising timely payments for all certificates. “As of today, my administration is not owing any contractor, whether for old or new projects,” he said. He charged Levant to match the government’s support by delivering on time and to standard.
In his welcome address, Innocent Esewezie, Chairman of Oshimili North Local Government, praised the governor for this project and others in the area. He promised continued support from the people and recalled the postponement from Oct. 7 due to rain, thanking the governor for keeping his word. “The Ugbolu–Okpanam Road is more than construction; it is a sign of your transformative M.O.R.E. Agenda,” Esewezie said. He noted that the local government has joined the governor’s plans through local projects on roads, markets, youth support, and education. “Our confidence in your government is total. The people of Oshimili North are happy to share in your development efforts,” he added.
The Ugoani of Okpanam Kingdom, Michael Mbanefo, also commended the governor for his forward-thinking leadership and community focus. He called the project “a symbol of unity, connectivity, and growth” and pledged the kingdom’s ongoing backing for the Oborevwori administration.
Elie Tannous, Managing Director of Levant Construction Company, thanked the governor for the trust and assured that the firm will complete the work on schedule and to high quality.
The event drew the state Deputy Governor, Monday Onyeme; Deputy National Chairman (South) of APC, Emma Eneukwu; State Chairman of APC, Omeni Sobotie; top officials; traditional rulers; community leaders; and others.
