The Delta State Government, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and Chevron Nigeria Limited have begun discussions on a major infrastructure project involving the construction of the Omadino–Okerenkoko–Escravos road and bridges in Delta State.
The project formed the focus of a meeting between Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, the Managing Director of the NDDC, Samuel Ogbuku, and officials of Chevron Nigeria Limited during a joint visit to the Government House in Asaba.
Governor Oborevwori welcomed the delegation and commended the leadership of the NDDC for strengthening collaboration with state governments and other stakeholders to drive development across the Niger Delta.
He recalled that the Delta State Government had earlier engaged with the NDDC leadership in October last year, where several development issues affecting the region were discussed, noting that the current engagement showed that many of those discussions were now progressing into practical steps.
The governor emphasised that the partnership between the state government, the NDDC and Chevron was critical to delivering impactful infrastructure projects, stressing that sustainable development could only be achieved through sincere collaboration among stakeholders.
According to him, transparency, accountability and proper project structuring must remain central to all development initiatives to ensure that the people clearly see the value and impact of such projects.
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Oborevwori also noted that the presence of key members of the State Executive Council at the meeting reflected the importance the state government attaches to the initiative.
Speaking to journalists after the meeting, NDDC Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku said the meeting with the governor was productive and demonstrated the strong commitment of the Delta State Government to the success of the project.
He explained that the proposed Omadino–Okerenkoko–Escravos road and bridges project would span about 70 kilometres and involve the construction of approximately 29 bridges, making it one of the most ambitious infrastructure initiatives in the region.
Ogbuku noted that the project would be executed through a partnership involving Chevron, the NDDC and the Delta State Government, with support expected from the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) and other joint venture partners.
According to him, the Delta State Government had indicated its readiness to support the project, particularly in providing right-of-way and facilitating community engagements that are essential for projects of such magnitude.
He also disclosed that a technical committee would be set up to review the design of the road, determine the total cost of the project and address issues relating to alignment across creeks where several bridges would be constructed.
Ogbuku further revealed that the project had attracted the attention of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who directed the leadership of the NNPC to ensure that its joint venture partners support the realisation of the initiative.
In his remarks, the Director of Operations of Chevron Nigeria Limited, Mr Segun Kuteyi said the company remained committed to initiatives that promote sustainable socio-economic development in communities within its areas of operation.
He noted that Chevron, which has operated in Nigeria for over six decades, places strong emphasis on partnerships with governments and host communities to deliver development projects and contribute to the country’s economic growth.
Kuteyi said the Omadino–Okerenkoko–Escravos road project would significantly improve connectivity in riverine communities of the Niger Delta, stimulate economic activities and promote regional integration.
He added that institutions such as the Nigerian Maritime University and several small and medium-scale businesses in the region would benefit from improved access once the road and bridges are completed.
