...Reiterates Dedication to the Development of Riverine Communities
By Sunday Apah
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori on Wednesday 12 November, 2025 emphasized his administration’s commitment to balanced development throughout the state, with particular focus on its riverine communities.
During the inauguration of the newly rehabilitated 12.1-kilometer Odimodi–Okuntu–Ogulagha Road in Burutu Local Government Area, Governor Oborevwori labeled the project as “a vital initiative that reconnects communities previously isolated by the difficult riverine landscape.”
He highlighted that this new road serves as evidence of his administration’s determination to deliver quality, enduring, and impactful infrastructure to all residents of Delta State.
“The excitement and joy evident today confirm that our administration is meeting the aspirations and needs of the people,” he stated.
“This road was initially built by SPDC many years ago but had fallen into disrepair. Upon my visit, I recognized its poor condition and committed to its rehabilitation. Today, we gather to officially open it for the benefit of our community and to honor God.”
The Governor pointed out that the road was constructed to rigorous engineering standards and tailored to endure the unique challenges presented by the Niger Delta’s environment.
He commended both the contractors and supervising engineers for their exceptional work, assuring that his administration ensures that all projects adhere to high standards of quality, accountability, and transparency.
“In Delta State, all contractors are promptly paid,” he affirmed. “We prioritize timely payments to ensure projects are completed on time. Consequently, you will not find abandoned projects here. Contractors prefer working in Delta State because they receive payment immediately upon proper completion of their work,” he added.
Governor Oborevwori mentioned that his administration continues to see through inherited projects while also launching new initiatives across the state.
He referenced the groundbreaking ceremony for the 12-kilometer segment of the Warri–Sapale–Benin Road, as well as upcoming developments such as the Otovwodo Flyover in Ughelli and the Uromi Junction Flyover in Agbor, among other significant roads and bridges aimed at improving connectivity and boosting economic activities.
He assured residents in the riverine areas that further development projects, including new roads, educational facilities, and shore protection measures, are forthcoming, stating that he is motivated by the trust and backing of the community.
“Our citizens in riverine communities deserve the very best. Given that a significant portion of the nation’s oil wealth is derived from this region, it is only right that they experience the benefits of governance in tangible ways. This road will enhance connectivity, support commerce and fishing, and improve the community’s economic prosperity,” Governor Oborevwori expressed.
Hon. Julius Pondi, the Member Representing Burutu Federal Constituency, also spoke at the event, expressing gratitude for the Governor’s focus on riverine areas, referring to the road project as “the start of even greater things ahead.”
He further thanked the Governor for appointing two commissioners from the constituency and pledged the support of the local populace.
“Your Excellency, we may not often express ourselves vocally, but our results speak volumes. You can count on Burutu to consistently deliver full support for you,” Pondi asserted.
Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Commissioner for Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, added that the project underscores Governor Oborevwori’s commitment to the riverine communities.
He elaborated that the road features varying pavement widths ranging from 6.5 to 10 meters, enhanced drainage systems, and the replacement of culverts with robust, flood-resistant structures.
“Even with the challenging terrain, His Excellency has demonstrated that no community in Delta State is too remote to receive development. This project, connecting Odimodi, Okuntu, and Ogulagha, will significantly improve the social and economic dynamics for our people,” noted Aniagwu.
In his welcome address, Hon. Julius Takeme, Chairman of Burutu Local Government, expressed gratitude to the Governor for his ongoing investments in the area, including the Technical College in Kiagbodo and the Ayakoromo Bridge, and urged him to prioritize the construction of a road to Burutu town, which remains the only local government headquarters in Nigeria without road access.
He assured the Governor of the community’s steadfast support, stating, “We are keeping you in our prayers, and come election time in 2027, our people will turn out in great numbers to vote for your reelection.”
Comrade Bright Guwor, Chairman of Ogulagha Community, offered his well wishes, praising the Governor for his “pragmatic leadership, ongoing engagement, and observable impact” throughout Delta State.
He remarked that the newly inaugurated road symbolizes not just a physical connection but also represents “unity, progress, and an enhanced quality of life.”
The event attracted numerous attendees, including the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Arthur Akpowowo, the Leader, Engr Emeka Nwaobi, members of the State House of Assembly, senior government officials, community leaders, and thrilled residents who viewed the project as a significant transformation of the riverine corridor and a clear manifestation of the Oborevwori administration’s commitment to its “Renewed Hope for More Agenda.”
