Oborevwori Flags Off ₦39.3bn Otovwodo Flyover to End Ughelli Traffic Gridlock
By Ezekiel Kagbala
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Monday performed the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the ₦39.3 billion Otovwodo (Ughelli) Flyover, describing the project as a permanent solution to the persistent traffic congestion at one of the state’s busiest intersections.
Speaking during the ceremony in Ughelli, the governor said the project represents a significant milestone in his administration’s infrastructure renewal programme and aligns with its commitment to prudent resource management, durable road construction, and the opening of urban and rural corridors to drive inclusive economic growth.
He noted that Ughelli, a historic commercial and educational hub, has experienced rapid population growth in recent years, placing intense pressure on its road infrastructure—particularly at the Otovwodo Junction along the East–West Road and adjoining routes.
According to Oborevwori, the junction had become notorious for daily gridlock, resulting in the loss of several productive hours for commuters and businesses. He added that he had personally experienced the traffic congestion at the location.
As a temporary intervention, the governor disclosed that his administration constructed alternative routes, including Uduere Street, Okogbe Street, Oru Street, Edo Street and Royal Avenue, linking Agbarha-Otor Road, at a cost of nearly ₦6 billion to ease vehicular movement ahead of the flyover construction.
The project, awarded to Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, is expected to be completed within 12 months. Oborevwori stressed that the timeline is non-negotiable due to the strategic importance of the junction to Delta State’s transport and commercial network.
He explained that the project comprises a multi-span reinforced concrete bridge with dual carriageways, roundabouts, and associated roadworks connecting the East–West Road to other arterial routes. He said it would significantly reduce travel time, improve road safety, and stimulate economic activities in Ughelli and its environs.
The governor also highlighted the employment benefits of the project, noting that it would generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs across the construction value chain. He urged residents to remain patient and cooperate with traffic authorities throughout the construction period.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to transparency and accountability, Oborevwori assured that Delta State would continue to execute major projects without borrowing. He added that several completed projects across the state were awaiting commissioning, with more projects to be flagged off in 2026 under the Renewed Hope for MORE Agenda.
Earlier, the Managing Director of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Engr. Peer Lubasch, expressed appreciation to the state government for the confidence reposed in the company, describing the award of the contract as a testament to its technical competence and longstanding partnership with Delta State.
He disclosed that the 15-span flyover would feature dual carriageways, connecting roads, specialised drainage systems, and solar-powered street lighting, assuring that the project would be delivered within schedule and in line with global standards.
Following the groundbreaking ceremony, Governor Oborevwori paid courtesy visits to the Ovie of Ughelli Kingdom, His Royal Majesty Wilson Ojakovo Oharisi III, and Chief Morrison Olori, Founder and Chairman of Ukodo Nation, where he reiterated his commitment to serving all Deltans without discrimination.
In their goodwill messages, the Otota (spokesman) of Ughelli Kingdom, Chief Peter Akpofure, and others, commended the governor for initiating what they described as a transformative and long-overdue project. They also appealed for additional internal roads and complementary infrastructure across the area.
The event attracted several dignitaries, including the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor; Delta APC Chairman, Elder Omeni Sobotie; Members of the National Assembly, Hon. Francis Waive and Hon. Ngozi Okolie; top government officials, traditional rulers, community leaders, and residents, many of whom hailed the project as a decisive step toward resolving Ughelli’s long-standing traffic challenges.
