Delta State Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Reuben Izeze, has reaffirmed Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s commitment to completing the Orere Bridge project, despite logistical and environmental challenges.
Speaking during an inspection of the project, Izeze commended the contractor handling the construction work, Obakpor Engineering, for their steady progress.
However, the commissioner advised the contractor of the urgency to maximize work hours before the rainy season intensifies, as forecasted by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET).
“Even as we speak, the rain is threatening. We hope significant progress can be made before the rains become too heavy,” he added.
Addressing concerns about the transportation of sand from Bayelsa State, Izeze acknowledged the logistical burden.
“It’s important to understand that acquiring sand from Kaiama in Bayelsa is far more expensive than sourcing it locally. The contractor has raised this with us, and we will brief His Excellency, Governor Oborevwori, so he can guide us on the next steps,” he explained.
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Reflecting on the progress recorded on the project since his last visit, the commissioner expressed cautious optimism, saying that “compared to the last time I was here, there’s been notable improvement.
“The retaining walls are now complete. While the surface still needs compaction, it’s clear the work is moving forward. This type of project requires time, particularly to allow proper curing and settling of materials,” he said.
Also present during the inspection was the Archbishop of the Bendel Province of the Anglican Communion, Most Rev. Cyril Odutemu, who is an indigene of the Orere community.
He expressed gratitude to the Delta State Government for continuing a vital project started by the previous administration.
“We thank Governor Oborevwori for continuing this audacious project. The fact that he didn’t abandon it proves that government is indeed a continuum.
“Without his commitment, we wouldn’t be standing here today,” the archbishop said.
“Anyone familiar with this area will understand that the pace of work here has been impressive. The only real challenge has been occasional flooding, which has slowed progress.”
Archbishop Odutemu called on residents of Orere to support the project by cooperating with the state government and the construction firm.
“If our people cooperate and give their full support, I am confident that, even with the rains, work can continue. By the end of this year or early next year, we will be celebrating the bridge’s completion,” he said.
