…says Orere Bridge Will Transform 15 Riverine Communities
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to prompt contractor payments, stating that the government prepares payment schedules weekly to ensure timely disbursement as contractors submit their certificates.
Speaking on Friday during an inspection of the Orere Bridge project in Ughelli South Local Government Area, the governor emphasized that contractors would no longer be allowed to take on projects they cannot complete within schedule.
Oborevwori noted that the Orere Bridge, initiated by the previous administration, plays a crucial role in linking over fifteen riverine communities.
“This bridge is vital to several communities in this area. Without it, accessing these communities is extremely difficult. Once completed, it will greatly benefit about 15 communities,” he stated.
The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to engaging indigenous contractors alongside international firms to promote local expertise.
“While we work with international companies, we also need to engage our local contractors, and I believe the quality of their work is satisfactory. However, I am not happy with the speed of work—the momentum is not acceptable. The contractor needs to accelerate progress,” he added.
Expressing concern over the slow pace, Governor Oborevwori stressed the need for urgent action:
“There isn’t enough speed on this project. If work continues at this rate, how long will I keep coming for inspections? By my next visit, I expect to conduct the final inspection before commissioning.
“The contractor has until the end of this year to deliver significant progress. If necessary, we will scale down their workload on other projects so they can focus here.
“We cannot continue awarding multiple contracts to contractors who keep moving from one site to another with little progress. Moving forward, contractors will only take on projects they can handle effectively. Once you complete a job on time, we will award you another.
“For those handling multiple projects without satisfactory performance, we will revoke some of their contracts and reassign them to capable hands. If you are performing, there’s no problem; but if you are not, your contract will be revoked.”
Dismissing payment delay excuses, the governor assured that the government promptly pays contractors upon certificate submission.
“Previously, contractors blamed delays on payment issues, but that is no longer an excuse. We process payments weekly, not monthly, so funds are readily available. Contractors must increase their pace because time is running out.
“By our second anniversary, I expect to have numerous projects ready for commissioning. These inspections help assess progress and contractor performance. While the quality of work here is satisfactory, the speed is not—we need more urgency on this project.”
Orere Bridge’s Economic Impact
Highlighting the bridge’s economic significance, Governor Oborevwori explained:
“We would not invest in such an infrastructure if it had no economic value. More importantly, these are Deltans, and as promised, we will be fair and just to all.
“This bridge will enable easier movement of goods and people. Instead of relying on boats, residents can transport their produce to town by road. Additionally, traders and buyers from outside can access these communities with ease.
“Beyond the bridge, we are constructing over five kilometers of road. Without the connecting roads, the bridge’s impact would be limited.”
Inspection of Other Projects
The governor also inspected the 46km Ohoror-Bomadi Road, which links Ughelli North, Ughelli South, Patani, Burutu, and Bomadi local government areas.
“There was wild jubilation when this project was approved by the State Executive Council (EXCO), showing how important it is to the people. This road benefits not just the Ijaw communities but also parts of Urhobo land,” he noted.
At Edo Road, Ughelli, which is being constructed with concrete, Governor Oborevwori praised the contractor for the high-quality work. He added that once completed with an asphalt overlay, the connecting roads would ease traffic congestion around Otovwodo Junction.
