Delta State has approved significant adjustments to the Warri flyover contract awarded to Julius Berger, including redesigning major interchanges and upgrading the DSC Flyover into a dual-carriage bridge.
The modifications, aimed at improving road infrastructure while minimizing land acquisition, were announced by the Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban), Rueben Izeze, during a post-Executive Council briefing on Thursday.
Izeze.said the initial ₦78.7 billion contract has been revised due to additional works and exchange rate fluctuations.
While he did not disclose the exact final cost, he assured that the adjustments were necessary for long-term benefits.
“For the construction of the bridges and flyovers, the original contract sum was ₦78.7 billion. However, given the fluctuations in the value of the naira against the euro, the contract cost has been subject to variations. Sometimes, costs decrease; other times, they increase,” he stated.
The commissioner explained that the state executive council approved modifications to the three-quarter cloverleaf interchange at the Effurun Roundabout, replacing it with a three-slipway bridge and two pedestrian walkways, adding that the redesign was necessary to preserve ancestral lands and prevent displacement.
“His Excellency, as you know, is an original Warri boy. He understands the importance of land to our people and recognizes that, under the Land Use Act, the compensation people receive when the government acquires their property is often not truly commensurate with the real value of their land,” he said.
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The DSC Flyover, initially planned as a single-lane structure, has been expanded into a dual-carriage bridge to accommodate future traffic demands. Similarly, the PTI Junction interchange has been significantly modified.
“If you go to PTI now, you will notice that the original fence of the Petroleum Training Institute, Effurun, has been realigned.
“We take this opportunity to express our gratitude to the management of the institute, particularly the principal and chief executive, for their cooperation in resolving this matter,” Izeze said.
Izeze assured the public that the final project cost would be revealed upon completion, adding that all expenditures would be fully accounted for.
“One thing I can assure you is this: every kobo spent on this project, or any project under this administration, is accounted for.
“Any expenditure can be subjected to scrutiny, and every kobo will be used justly for the benefit of Delta State. There are no shortcuts, and as you know, Julius Berger does not cut corners. Any funds allocated but not spent will be refunded,” he stated.
He said the government is expected to finalize the relocation of transmission lines and other necessary adjustments before disclosing the final project cost, pointing out that, with these infrastructure improvements, Warri residents can expect enhanced road connectivity and urban development in the coming months.
Speaking further, the works commissioner disclosed that despite the cost variations due to redesigns, ₦3 billion was saved through the governor’s intervention in scrutinizing project rates.
