President Bola Tinubu has commended Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara for completing the 33.5-kilometre Elele-Egbeda-Omoku dual carriageway, describing the project as a major infrastructure investment that will boost economic growth and improve connectivity across the state.
Vice President Kashim Shettima conveyed the President’s message on Thursday while commissioning the highway in Rivers State on behalf of the President.
Shettima said Tinubu shared the excitement of Rivers residents over the completion of the strategic road and the economic opportunities it would create for communities along the corridor.
He praised Fubara for delivering the project, noting that the investment demonstrated prudent use of public resources and aligned with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
According to him, the road would ease the movement of agricultural produce, reduce transportation and logistics costs, expand market access for traders and businesses, and significantly cut travel time.
Shettima recalled that the road had previously been characterised by severe deterioration, deep gullies and insecurity, which discouraged motorists from using the route.
He described roads as “the most democratic instruments of development,” saying quality infrastructure benefits farmers, traders, workers, students and people seeking medical care.
The Vice President urged residents to protect the road from vandalism and misuse, stressing that its long-term benefits would depend on proper maintenance and responsible use.
Speaking at the ceremony, Fubara said the project would strengthen security, reconnect communities and stimulate economic activities across Ikwerre, Emohua and Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Areas.
He said the corridor had previously been notorious for kidnapping and illegal oil bunkering due to its poor condition and difficult terrain.
According to the governor, the reconstructed dual carriageway, which features a river-crossing bridge and streetlights, would enhance surveillance, improve night travel and make it more difficult for criminals to operate.
“This is more than a road project. It is proof that we care about the welfare and safety of our people,” Fubara said, adding that the project fulfilled a promise made to residents.
The Commissioner for Works, Prof. Temple Nwofor, said the 33.5-kilometre project connects several communities, including Elele, Umudioga, Egbeda, Ubimini, Ikiri and Omoku, while linking three local government areas.
Nwofor disclosed that the contract was awarded on March 26, 2024, with a 24-month completion period.
He said the project comprises dual carriageways, a major bridge and other supporting infrastructure constructed to modern engineering standards.
According to him, the completed road would improve mobility, promote commerce and enhance the quality of life of residents in the benefiting communities.
