Delta, Contractor Fine-tune Plans for Otu-Jeremi/Udu Road Reconstruction

By Admin 

The Delta State Government has concluded arrangements with Niger Cat Construction Limited for the commencement of the rehabilitation and reconstruction of the Otu-Jeremi/Udu Road, with both parties pledging to ensure the smooth execution of the project.

The decision was reached at a meeting on Friday in Asaba between the Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Hon. Reuben Izeze, officials of the construction firm and representatives of the host communities.

The project covers the stretch from the Warri-Port Harcourt Expressway at ECN Junction to the DSC Expressway at Udu Road Junction.

Speaking at the meeting, the Commissioner for Works, (Hghways and Urban Roads) Hon. Reuben Izeze charged the contractor to deliver the project within the agreed timeline, describing the road as vital to the socio-economic development of communities in Ughelli South and Udu Local Government Areas.

Izeze urged the company to maintain a cordial relationship with the host communities to guarantee uninterrupted work throughout the construction period.

The commissioner also unveiled a Special Project Coordinator and community representatives who will serve as liaison between the government, the contractor and the host communities to address issues that may arise during the execution of the project.

According to him, the representatives will work together to sustain a peaceful atmosphere and facilitate the timely delivery of the road.

Izeze further advised the contractor to engage qualified personnel in line with the project's requirements while ensuring the host communities are carried along.

He disclosed that government officials and the contractor would next Wednesday pay a courtesy visit to the traditional rulers of the affected communities to seek their support before major construction work begins.

Project Manager of Niger Cat Construction Limited, Engr. George Farah, described the meeting as fruitful, saying it provided an opportunity to resolve critical issues before mobilisation to site.

"It was a very productive meeting. We discussed the commencement of the project and resolved the major issues before moving to the site. The aim is to ensure that every challenge is addressed before work begins. We appreciate His Excellency for the support," Farah said.

Community representative, Olorogun Sito Ena, also hailed the outcome of the meeting, expressing confidence that the arrangement would strengthen cooperation between the contractor and the host communities.

He pledged to work with stakeholders across the two local government areas to ensure a peaceful environment for the successful execution of the project.

The Otu-Jeremi/Udu Road reconstruction is expected to improve connectivity between communities in Ughelli South and Udu councils, ease transportation and stimulate economic activities in the area.