Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has given a firm assurance that the much-anticipated Port Harcourt Ring Road project will be completed and commissioned by October this year.The governor made the pledge following an on-site inspection of the over 50-kilometre dual carriageway, which traverses at least five local government areas in the state.
The ambitious infrastructure, handled by Julius Berger Nigeria Limited, is aimed at easing chronic traffic gridlock in the Port Harcourt metropolis and surrounding communities.Speaking to journalists after the tour, Governor Fubara said the contractors had renewed their commitment to the timeline, contingent on consistent funding from the state government.
He stressed that his administration would sustain the necessary financial support to prevent any further delays, aligning with his pledge to deliver lasting dividends of democracy to Rivers people. Recalling the original 36-month contract period, which began at the start of his tenure, the governor noted that the project was nearing its initial deadline.
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“In our discussions, they are still assuring us that by October, they will deliver the project, and I strongly believe this promise I made to my people will be fulfilled. What they need is the fund, and from my end is the push,” he declared.
Fubara described the Ring Road as a strategic legacy project initiated by his predecessor, former Governor Nyesom Wike, now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. He expressed determination to realise Wike’s vision, saying completion at record time would earn widespread appreciation from residents.“This project is very important considering the person who conceived it, my Oga, the honourable minister.
He had a very big vision. He believed that if I achieve this project at record time, Rivers people will be happy with me,” Fubara said.Despite political and financial hurdles facing the state, the governor reiterated his resolve to see the initiative through for the benefit of current and future generations.
When fully delivered, the Port Harcourt Ring Road is expected to serve as a vital bypass around the capital city, reducing pressure on inner-city roads, boosting access to industrial and residential areas, and significantly enhancing the state’s transportation network.The project, flagged off early in the Fubara administration, has faced some setbacks but now shows renewed momentum with contractors back on site.
