Residents of Elemebiri in Sagbama Local Government Area have called on the Bayelsa State Government and the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to fast-track the completion of the Sampou-Elemebiri road project.
The appeal was made during the annual Osuobulu Fishing Festival, a three-day cultural event held between March and April that draws participants from across Rivers, Delta, Imo, and Anambra states.
Despite the festival’s role as a major economic hub for fish and farm produce like yams and vegetables, community leaders say poor access is stifling its potential. The traditional ruler of Elemebiri, retired Colonel Phillip Okubotein, noted that while the 18.7km road project is appreciated, the current pace of work is too slow.
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He urged Governor Douye Diri to ensure the project is completed under the Renewed Prosperity Administration to help the state better exploit the area’s tourism and economic opportunities.
The Chairman of the Community Development Committee (CDC), Chief Festus Ekumor, highlighted the high cost of water transportation as a major barrier to development. He described the festival’s atmosphere as vibrant but noted that the community remains difficult to reach for business people and travelers.
Local stakeholders, including Kingdom Oputa and Akpolagha Afinawariowei, reminded authorities that Elemebiri was historically a vital transit point linking Omoku in Rivers State to Onitsha in Anambra State.
They argued that finishing the road would restore the town’s status as a key boundary hub and thoroughfare.
The community is now looking to the state and federal governments to deliver the project within the original timeframe to revitalize the region’s cross-border trade.
