Residents of Orere and neighbouring riverine communities in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State have begun celebrating a new era of accessibility and economic opportunity as vehicles officially commenced movement across the long-awaited Orere Bridge, a landmark infrastructure project championed by Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori.
Key Highlights:
- Vehicles have successfully crossed the Orere Bridge for the first time in history.
- The project is over 82 percent completed.
- Bridge spans 500 metres across the Orere River with 4.36 kilometres of access roads.
- Residents no longer depend solely on canoes for transportation.
- Governor Oborevwori praised for sustaining and funding the project.
- Contractor assures full completion before December 2026.
- Community leaders describe the project as a transformative development for riverine communities.
The development marks a significant breakthrough in Delta State’s infrastructure expansion programme, bringing an end to decades of transportation challenges that left residents dependent on water transport to access neighbouring communities and economic centres.
The multi-billion-naira Orere Bridge project comprises a 500-metre bridge across the Orere River, 4.36 kilometres of access roads and arterial routes, including a connecting spur into Orere Town. The project was originally awarded in 2021 and has now reached 82.25 percent completion.
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During an inspection visit on Thursday, the Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, expressed satisfaction with the pace of work and commended Governor Oborevwori for ensuring the project’s continuity and steady funding.
Accompanied by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Engr. Solomon Aghagba, and other senior officials, Izeze described the decision to award the contract to indigenous construction firm Obakpor J.U. Construction Limited as a commendable investment in local capacity.
According to him, the project had faced several obstacles and uncertainties over the years but has now become a reality due to the governor’s commitment to completing inherited projects across the state.
“Today, for the first time in history, vehicles are driving into Orere. SUVs, saloon cars and heavy-duty vehicles now have access to the community. As of June 4, 2026, this historic achievement has become a reality,” he said.
Orere Bridge Opens New Economic Opportunities
Izeze noted that the Orere Bridge was conceived in response to longstanding demands from residents seeking better connectivity, economic growth and improved access to essential services.
He also acknowledged the role played by former Governor Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa in approving and awarding the project, while praising Governor Oborevwori for ensuring its continued execution despite prevailing economic challenges.
The commissioner attributed delays in the project largely to prolonged periods of heavy rainfall over the past three years, describing the weather conditions as a major factor affecting construction timelines.
However, he expressed confidence that the remaining work would be completed according to engineering specifications and quality standards.
Contractor Targets Completion Before December
Chairman of Obakpor J.U. Construction Limited, Chief John Oguma, assured residents that the project would be fully completed and ready for commissioning before December 2026.
He reiterated the company’s commitment to delivering a durable and world-class infrastructure project that would stand the test of time.
Residents Celebrate Historic Development
The opening of the Orere Bridge to vehicular traffic has generated excitement among residents, many of whom described the development as a dream fulfilled.
Former Chairman of Orere Community, Mr. Lucky Eyasuile, praised Governor Oborevwori for ensuring the completion of a project many residents once believed would never materialise.
He pledged the community’s continued support for the administration and commended the government for prioritising rural development.
Commercial motorcyclists, including Freedom Ovwigho and Prince Meleghe, as well as resident Endurance Emefe, said the ability to drive directly into the community represents a historic turning point for local residents.
According to them, the bridge will significantly reduce travel time, improve access to healthcare and education, boost commerce and open up new economic opportunities across the riverine axis.
With vehicles now successfully crossing the Orere Bridge, the project stands as one of the most impactful infrastructure achievements in Delta State’s riverine communities and a major boost to regional connectivity, trade and development.
