Effurun, Delta State — Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State has officially flagged off the reconstruction of the Warri–Sapele–Benin Dual Carriageway, describing it as a major milestone in the ongoing collaboration between the Federal and State Governments to improve critical infrastructure across Nigeria.
Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony held on Tuesday in Uvwie Local Government Area, the governor said the project reflected the spirit of partnership under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, noting that it would ease movement, boost trade, and improve security in the region.
“This project represents another major step forward in the infrastructure renewal drive of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government, in collaboration with the Delta State Government,” Oborevwori said.
“Although this road is a federal route, the users are Deltans and Nigerians, and their safety and comfort are what matter most to us.”
The Warri–Sapele–Benin Road, according to the governor, is a vital national highway connecting major cities in the South-South region and linking Edo State to other parts of Nigeria. The reconstruction will feature reinforced concrete pavements, wider shoulders, and an extensive stormwater drainage system to ensure durability and safety for commuters.
Governor Oborevwori lamented the years of hardship faced by motorists due to the poor state of the road and assured that his administration was determined to restore it to a modern standard. He emphasised that the project would improve transportation, stimulate economic activities, and enhance security in the area.
“Criminals often exploit bad roads to commit crimes. Once completed, this highway will make movement safer and improve the response of security agencies,” he said.
The governor revealed that the state government had already paid ₦10 billion in compensation for the ongoing construction of the Second Niger Bridge access road project to improve connectivity between Asaba, Onitsha, and neighbouring communities.
Reaffirming his commitment to people-centred governance, Oborevwori promised to address local concerns, including the establishment of a Mother and Child Hospital and the provision of a 500KVA transformer for the Uvwie community.
“At over sixty years of age, I am not here for personal gain but to leave lasting legacies that generations will remember me for,” the governor said before officially declaring the project open from the Effurun Roundabout to Ometan Bridge.
Delta State Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, described the initiative as the product of the governor’s vision for a modern Delta. He explained that the 10-kilometre stretch includes 5 kilometres on each lane, each measuring 8.8 metres wide — wider than the standard 7.3 metres — and is expected to be completed within 12 months.
“This is another landmark achievement that will boost trade, transport, and community life in the region,” Izeze said.
Engr. Thomas Feng, General Manager of China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), the contractor handling the project, expressed gratitude to the state government for the confidence reposed in the firm. He assured that the company would deliver the road on schedule and to international standards.
“Today’s ceremony marks the beginning of a renewed era of infrastructure that will promote safer travel, stronger connectivity, and lasting economic growth,” Feng said.
The Chairman of Uvwie Local Government Area, Chief Anthony Ofoni, announced that the Airport Road in Effurun would be renamed Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori Way in recognition of the governor’s developmental achievements.
Also speaking, HRM Emmanuel Sideso, Abe I, the Ovie of Uvwie Kingdom and Chairman of the Urhobo Council of Traditional Rulers, commended the governor’s focus on urban renewal projects, including the construction of three flyovers and major road expansions across Warri and Effurun.
Representing the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, Okakuro Mike Afe praised the governor’s commitment to development and prayed for his continued success in office.
The event was attended by top government officials, traditional rulers, community leaders, and business executives who described the project as a “beacon of renewed hope” for the people of Delta and Nigeria as a whole.
