Izeze made the remarks during an on-site inspection of the ongoing Ayakoromo Bridge project on Wednesday, January 29, 2026. Accompanying him were his Technical Assistant, Engr. Ejovi Adasen; Deputy Director, Highways, Engr. Eghwrudje Ojarigho; and other senior officials from the Ministry of Works. The inspection focused on assessing progress on the bridge linking Egbo-Ide in Ughelli South Local Government Area to Ayakoromo community in Burutu Local Government Area—a critical riverine connection long awaited by residents of the coastal and creek communities.
According to the commissioner, the Ayakoromo Bridge exemplifies Governor Oborevwori’s readiness to confront complex, high-risk, and historically delayed projects that previous administrations had avoided. “This is not just about overcoming fear; this is a clear demonstration of audacity and courage. His Excellency has the boldness to take on very tasking projects that others would shy away from. That is why I call him an unusual governor,” Izeze stated.
He highlighted significant milestones already achieved:
- Completion of all demolitions and integrity tests, clearing the path for uninterrupted full-scale construction.
- Stabilization of the main alignment spanning approximately 1.5 kilometres.
- Active construction on piers 4, 5, 6, 7, and 11, with work set to proceed to the remaining 18 spans once these are completed.
Izeze disclosed that the contractor, Setraco Nigeria Limited, has assured the state government that beam launching—the critical next phase involving placement of pre-cast concrete beams—will commence within the next three months. He expressed strong confidence in Setraco’s technical capacity and track record to deliver the project on schedule.
A key factor enabling the steady progress, the commissioner noted, is Governor Oborevwori’s commitment to consistent and timely funding. The project is financed under an Irrevocable Standing Payment Order (ISPO) arrangement, which guarantees automatic deductions from federal allocations to service contractor payments. “This project has never lacked funding. Payments are made consistently as and when due. There are no outstanding liabilities, in line with the governor’s promise,” Izeze emphasized.
He urged residents of Ayakoromo and Egbo-Ide communities to remain patient and supportive, assuring them that the governor is fully committed to fulfilling his pledge. “He may not talk much, but once he speaks, he delivers,” the commissioner added.
Speaking during the inspection, Setraco’s Project Manager, Engr. Nabil Chaihin, expressed optimism that more visible progress would be recorded before the end of 2026. “We started a few months ago and have already opened several access points. By the next rainy season, around June or July, the progress will be much more evident. We believe the government and the communities will be satisfied because this project is for the people,” Chaihin said.
He commended the host communities for their cooperation, describing the working relationship as “smooth and supportive.” “Both communities have shown full cooperation. Everything is going smoothly here, and I am very happy to be part of this project,” he added.
Chairman of Ayakoromo Federated Community, Mr. Princewill Brakala, thanked Governor Oborevwori and the Delta State Government for reviving and fast-tracking the bridge project, which had lingered for several years under previous administrations. He described the Ayakoromo Bridge as transformative infrastructure that would open up isolated riverine communities, improve access to markets, healthcare, and education, and boost economic activities across the coastal belt.
“This is a project we have long awaited. It will transform our community and improve access to other parts of the state. We sincerely thank His Excellency for executing this project with speed,” Brakala said. He also appealed to the state government to consider complementary road infrastructure within Ayakoromo community to enhance connectivity to major express routes and hinterland areas.
The Ayakoromo Bridge is one of several flagship river-crossing and coastal linkage projects under Governor Oborevwori’s Renewed Hope Agenda. The initiative seeks to bridge long-standing infrastructural gaps in Delta’s riverine and creek areas, where communities have historically relied on boats and canoes for movement and commerce.
Commissioner Izeze’s praise and the visible progress on site have reinforced public confidence in the administration’s delivery capacity, particularly in difficult terrains and high-cost projects. Residents and stakeholders in Burutu and Ughelli South have expressed optimism that the bridge, once completed, will significantly reduce travel time, lower transportation costs, and stimulate socio-economic development in the affected communities.
The state government has reiterated its commitment to completing the Ayakoromo Bridge and other priority infrastructure projects within stipulated timelines, with funding secured and contractors actively mobilized.
