Emmanuel Ukudolo I Friday, March 13.26
ASABA – In a move set to redefine the economic landscape of Delta State’s riverine corridors, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has announced a high-powered tripartite partnership to deliver the ambitious 70.75 km Omadino-Okerenkoko-Escravos Road.
The project, a joint venture between the Delta State Government, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), and energy giant Chevron Nigeria Limited, aims to bridge the gap between the hinterland and the state’s most vital oil-producing coastal hubs.
During a courtesy visit from the NDDC management team led by Managing Director Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, Governor Oborevwori hailed the project as a “transformative” investment in peace and connectivity.
”Delta State is ready to partner with the NDDC and Chevron to deliver this project,” the Governor affirmed. “This is a strategic corridor. It is an investment in economic connectivity and peace-building across our riverine communities.”
The Governor emphasized that the collaboration is designed to ensure accountability and transparency, tasking the partners to finalize financial valuations and contributions immediately.
The scale of the project is significant, designed to navigate the difficult terrain of the Warri South and Warri South-West Local Government Areas.
Project Specifications at a Glance:
Total Length: 70.76 Kilometres.
Main Alignment: 66.54 km from Omadino to Escravos.
Spur: 4.22 km extension to Kokodiagbene.
Infrastructure: 29 bridges linking various oil-bearing and coastal communities.
Dr. Ogbuku noted that this “mega-project” follows the successful model of the Ogbia-Nembe Road, previously built in partnership with Shell. He identified Escravos as an area of “special economic priority” that requires urgent accessibility to unlock its full potential.
For Chevron, the road represents more than just infrastructure; it is a vital artery for the global energy market. Engr. Segun Kuteyi, Chevron’s Director of Operations, highlighted that the road would provide direct access to the Escravos Export Terminal.
”The construction of this road will boost oil production and other economic activities,” Kuteyi stated. He added that the project would drastically improve security response times and foster better relations between the diverse communities in the Niger Delta.
Governor Oborevwori has directed the formation of a technical team to work alongside NDDC and Chevron experts. This team will oversee:
Final project designs.
Comprehensive cost assessments.
Selection of a “reputable construction firm” to ensure the project does not stall.
.