Former Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, initiated the construction of the Port Ring Road project on Monday.
He assured Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the people of the State that the well-funded project, with Julius Berger as the contractor, would be completed and inaugurated ahead of schedule.
In his address before commencing the project, the former governor praised Julius Berger, stating that they would not wait for the projected three years to finish the job.
He expressed confidence that the completion of the project by Julius Berger Nigeria PLC would bring happiness to the people of the State and create a positive impact on their lives.
Managing Director of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Engr. Lars Richter at the flag-off ceremony for the construction of the Port Harcourt Ring Road project in Port Harcourt last Monday
Governor Fubara reminded everyone present that the event was a continuation of the contract signing ceremony held the previous Wednesday.
He emphasized that the project had been fully paid for, clearing any doubts about its progress.
He also highlighted the importance of the project in connecting communities, stating that it would lead to the development of new cities in Rivers State and improve accessibility to the State capital.
Governor Fubara called for the full cooperation of community leaders and youths in the six local government areas where the Ring Road would pass through.
Port Harcourt Ring Road project in Port Harcourt last Monday
He urged them to support the State Government and the contractors to ensure the successful completion of the project.
He warned that any attempts to sabotage the Port Harcourt Ring Road would be met with strict consequences, while expressing confidence in Julius Berger’s reputation for delivering quality projects.
The Group Managing Director of Julius Berger Nigeria PLC, Engr. Dr. Lars Richter, described the Port Harcourt Ring Road project as a symbol of the State Government and the company’s collective journey towards progress.
ceremony for the construction of the Port Harcourt Ring Road project in Port Harcourt last Monday
He emphasized that the project would not only connect places but also communities for development. Dr. Richter also highlighted the positive impact the project would have on alleviating traffic congestion and laying a solid foundation for the communities involved.
The State’s Commissioner for Works, George Kelly Alabo, provided a detailed description of the project, which had been in the planning stage for decades.
The project would span a length of 50.15km, including 45 km of dual carriageway, 4.8km of six flyovers, and a 350m river-crossing bridge.
During the contract signing, Governor Fubara announced that the Rivers State Government would contribute 77% of the N195.3 billion contract sum, approximately N150 billion, to commence the project.
He assured Julius Berger that the remaining balance would be paid once they had completed around 75% of the work.
He commended Julius Berger for their track record of excellence and pledged continued support.
Governor Fubara stated that the project would cover six local government areas, namely Okrika, Eleme, Echie, Ikwerre, and Obia-Akpor.
He urged the people in the project area to cooperate responsibly with the contractor to ensure timely completion.
He cautioned traditional rulers and youths from hindering the contractor’s work.
Considering the project’s significance, Governor Fubara anticipated that it would attract industrialists, real estate investors, and other businesses, leading to economic growth.
He noted that people had already begun acquiring land along the project corridor.
The governor emphasized that the project’s completion within 36 months was essential to achieving his administration’s goals.
The flag-off event was attended by former Governor Sir Dr. Peter Odili, distinguished senators and honorable members of the House of Representatives, members of the Rivers State Executive, the honorable Speaker and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, and the Chairman and members of the Rivers State Council of Chiefs. Julius Berger’s delegation, led by Managing Director Dr. Lars Richter, included key representatives from the company and its media relations department.
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