The Delta State government has expressed deep disappointment with the slow pace of work on two major infrastructure projects in the state. The Commissioner for Works, Reuben Izeze, led an inspection of the Orere River Bridge and the Edjekota–Ewu–Orere Road in Ughelli South Local Government Area, alongside engineers from the ministry. The projects, which have overstayed their expected timelines, were awarded to a local construction company.
The Orere River Bridge project, which includes access roads and a spur in Orere Town, was awarded on January 27, 2021, at an initial contract sum of N9.85 billion. The contract sum was later revised to N32.45 billion. The same company is handling the rehabilitation and asphalt overlay of the Edjekota–Ewu–Orere Road, which was awarded on September 3, 2026, at a contract sum of N6.92 billion. The road project was mobilized on September 10, 2026, with an expected completion date of March 10, 2028.
Commissioner Izeze accused the contractor of taking advantage of its relationship with the state government, describing their attitude as unacceptable. He expressed strong displeasure with the pace of work, noting that the contractor seemed to be engaging in "window dressing" whenever ministry officials visited the project sites. Izeze warned that if the situation persists, the government will have no option but to make recommendations to the state government.
The government had provided full backing to the contractor, an indigenous company, in a bid to encourage local participation in infrastructure development. Despite this support, the contractor has failed to meet expectations, leading to concerns about the project's completion. Izeze stressed that the projects must be treated with greater seriousness to benefit residents of Orere and Ewu communities.
During the inspection, Izeze observed that the contractor's work was not satisfactory, with little visible progress on site. He noted that the rain could no longer be used as an excuse for the delay, as the government had come to inspect the site after the rain had stopped. The commissioner warned the contractor to take the projects seriously and ensure timely completion.
The Edjekota–Ewu–Orere Road project, which is still in its early stages, requires urgent attention to meet its expected completion date. The government's threat to take action against the contractor has raised hopes that the project will be completed on schedule. Residents of the affected communities are eagerly awaiting the completion of the projects, which will improve transportation and access to basic services.
The Delta State government's warning to the contractor serves as a reminder of its commitment to ensuring that infrastructure projects are completed on time and to the required standards. The government will continue to monitor the project's progress, and further action will be taken if the contractor fails to meet expectations.
Key points
- The Delta State government has threatened a contractor over the slow pace of work on two major infrastructure projects.
- The projects, which include the Orere River Bridge and the Edjekota–Ewu–Orere Road, have overstayed their expected timelines.
- The government has expressed deep disappointment with the contractor's attitude and pace of work, warning of further action if the situation persists.
