Rivers Governor Highlights Peace as Catalyst for Development During Emohua–Ogbakiri–Egbelu Road Commissioning
Rivers Governor Champions Peace During Emohua–Ogbakiri–Egbelu Road Commissioning
Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has underscored the critical role of social harmony in enabling sustainable development, speaking at the commissioning of the Emohua–Ogbakiri–Egbelu Road. The project, spanning approximately 9.7 kilometres, is designed to enhance connectivity between Emohua and surrounding riverine communities, while linking them to the East–West Road corridor to stimulate socio-economic activities.
Fubara emphasised that peaceful coexistence among residents is a prerequisite for effective infrastructure delivery. He highlighted that protecting community assets, including educational and commercial institutions, is essential to ensuring the long-term benefits of state investments.
Reflecting on the project’s origins, the governor explained that the road forms part of an extended corridor connecting Ogbakiri, Abalama, Abonemma, and Buguma, complementing previous infrastructure initiatives including the East-West Road and Emohua–Tema Junction corridor. He reiterated the state’s commitment to completing strategic infrastructure despite historical funding and administrative challenges.
The governor also addressed community requests for additional infrastructure, notably a bridge linking Ogbakiri to mainland Port Harcourt. He assured residents that the proposal would be reviewed, with feasibility and cost considerations taken into account to enhance transport efficiency, commercial activity, and security response.
Role of Private Contractors and Timely Execution
Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, the contractor responsible for the Emohua–Ogbakiri–Egbelu Road, highlighted the contribution of community cooperation to the project’s early completion. Dr Abdulaziz Isa Kaita, Director of Administration, stated that the 18-month project was finalised three months ahead of schedule, attributing the success to both resident collaboration and state government support during periods of global inflationary pressure.
Similarly, Dr Peer Lubasch, Managing Director of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, noted that other major projects, including the Ahoada–Omoku Road extension and dualisation, were delivered with high quality ahead of deadlines. He reaffirmed the firm’s commitment to completing ongoing initiatives, particularly the legacy Ring Road project, in line with Rivers State’s long-term development agenda.
Socio-Economic Impact
The Emohua–Ogbakiri–Egbelu Road is expected to facilitate the movement of goods and people, reduce travel time, and enhance access to social services for riverine communities. By improving connectivity to the East–West corridor, the road is positioned to stimulate commercial activities, strengthen local markets, and support security operations.
Governor Fubara’s remarks link social cohesion directly with economic development, highlighting the interdependence of peace, infrastructure, and governance. The successful completion of the road project demonstrates the effectiveness of coordinated public-private partnerships and proactive state intervention in overcoming operational and financial challenges.
The project sets a precedent for future infrastructure undertakings in Rivers State, where timely execution, community engagement, and fiscal support are aligned to promote sustainable growth and inclusive development.
