Asaba, Delta State – The Delta State Commissioner for the Directorate of Riverine Infrastructural Development, Hon. Ebikeme Clark, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to delivering critical projects in riverine communities despite the high cost and difficulties of working in the creeks.
Speaking with journalists in Asaba on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, Clark disclosed that the State Executive Council recently approved the construction of the Kolokolo–Tisun road in Warri North Local Government Area at a contract sum of nearly ₦4 billion. He added that the council also approved the construction of internal roads in Kantu and Ijalagha, both in Warri South-West Local Government Area, at a combined contract sum of more than ₦3 billion.
The commissioner explained that the projects are still in the tendering stage but will soon be awarded to qualified contractors. According to him, only firms with proven capacity to mobilize to the creeks and deliver on schedule will be considered.
“The Kolokolo–Tisun road is just one of the communities benefiting first. Others will follow gradually as funds permit,” Clark said.
He emphasized that the projects are vital, noting that riverine residents, like their urban counterparts, deserve roads, bridges, schools, hospitals, and other infrastructure to improve living conditions. He highlighted that poor transport links have long hindered the movement of farm produce and fish from the creeks to urban markets, disclosing that the government is also considering the provision of fishing and transport boats.
Clark recalled that on assumption of office, he toured six major riverine local government areas—Burutu, Bomadi, Patani, Warri South, Warri North, and Warri South-West—to assess their needs. He said communities requested projects ranging from land reclamation to jetties, schools, and hospitals, but stressed that government is addressing these demands gradually due to limited resources.
The commissioner further listed ongoing works across the creeks, including roads in Ubeji, Ugbokodo, and Atete (Warri South LGA); Ogbe-Ijoh, Egileaten, Oporoza, Kokodiagbene, and Okerenkoko township roads (Warri South-West LGA); as well as projects in Patani LGA. He also pointed to the Ayakoromo Bridge, which when completed, will ease travel between Ughelli and Burutu.
Clark praised Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for sustaining infrastructural development without external borrowing and expressed optimism that more communities will benefit before the end of his tenure.
On Delta State’s 34th anniversary, the commissioner said the state has recorded significant progress in infrastructure, peace, and security, adding that “at 34, the state has cause to celebrate.” He appealed to residents to remain patient as the governor’s MORE agenda is designed to deliver sustainable development across the state.
