Odita Sunday 
UGHELLI – Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Monday performed the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the ₦39.3 billion Otovwodo Flyover in Ughelli. The project is designed as a permanent solution to the persistent traffic congestion at one of the state’s most critical junctions.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Governor described the project as a major milestone in his administration’s infrastructure renewal drive, emphasizing that it aligns with his agenda for prudent resource allocation and the opening of urban corridors for inclusive growth.
Ughelli, a vital commercial and educational hub, has faced significant pressure on its road network due to rapid population growth. Governor Oborevwori noted that the Otovwodo Junction on the East–West Road had become notorious for gridlock, costing commuters valuable productive hours.
As an interim measure, the administration previously invested nearly ₦6 billion in constructing alternative routes, including Uduere, Okogbe, and Oru streets, to provide temporary relief before the commencement of the flyover.
The contract, awarded to Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, has a non-negotiable completion timeline of 12 months. The project features:
- A 15-span multi-span reinforced concrete bridge with dual carriageways.
- Strategically designed roundabouts.
- Associated roadworks linking the East–West Road with other arterial routes.
- Specialized drainage systems and solar-powered street lighting.
The Managing Director of Julius Berger, Engr. Peer Lubasch, assured that the flyover would be delivered to global standards, validating the company’s technical partnership with the Delta State Government.
Beyond traffic relief, Governor Oborevwori highlighted the job creation potential, noting that the construction value chain would generate thousands of direct and indirect opportunities. He reaffirmed his commitment to transparency, stating that the state continues to execute these major projects without resorting to external borrowing.
Following the ceremony, the Governor visited the Ovie of Ughelli Kingdom, HRM Wilson Ojakovo Oharisi III, and other community leaders to reiterate his commitment to being a governor for all Deltans. Local officials, including the Chairman of Ughelli North Local Government Council, Hon. Jaro Egbo, hailed the project as a transformative step for the region, while appealing for continued investment in internal road infrastructure.
The event was attended by high-ranking officials including the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, National Assembly members, and traditional rulers, all of whom praised the initiative as a decisive solution to Ughelli’s long-standing traffic challenges.
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