In a display of widespread acclaim for ongoing infrastructure development in Delta State, the Ovie of Ughelli Kingdom, His Royal Majesty (HRM) Wilson Ojakovo Oharisi III, has lauded Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori for initiating the construction of the Otovwodo Flyover in Ughelli. The monarch described the project as a landmark intervention that will permanently reshape Ughelli into a modern, efficient metropolis, alleviating decades of debilitating traffic chaos and elevating the quality of life for residents.
The commendation came on Monday, January 12, 2026, at the monarch's palace in Ughelli, Ughelli North Local Government Area, shortly after the governor performed the groundbreaking ceremony for the massive flyover. Speaking through the Otota (traditional spokesman) of Ughelli Kingdom, Chief Peter Akpofure, HRM Oharisi III praised the governor's visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to the kingdom's progress.
The monarch highlighted several completed strategic roads around the Otovwodo axis, which have already significantly reduced perennial traffic bottlenecks. He also acknowledged additional road projects across the kingdom and the governor's appointments of indigenes to key positions, actions that have fostered community upliftment and inclusive governance.
“This flyover bridge will forever change the face of Ughelli and will be remembered and appreciated by generations yet unborn,” the monarch declared, offering fervent prayers for divine guidance, abundant resources, and steadfast human support to ensure Governor Oborevwori's continued success. He pledged the full cooperation and loyalty of the Ughelli people to the Oborevwori administration, underscoring the traditional institution's role as a vital partner in grassroots development.
The ₦39.3 billion Otovwodo Flyover, awarded to renowned construction firm Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, is a 15-span structure featuring dual carriageways, connecting roads, advanced drainage systems, and energy-efficient solar street lighting. Designed to global standards, the project promises to deliver a permanent solution to the notorious gridlock at Otovwodo Junction along the East-West Road — a critical artery that has long plagued commuters, traders, and motorists in one of Delta State's busiest commercial hubs.
Ughelli, a historic center of trade, education, and culture in Urhoboland, has experienced explosive population growth in recent decades. This surge has severely strained the existing road network, turning Otovwodo Junction into a daily nightmare where travelers lose hours in traffic, hampering productivity, commerce, and safety. Governor Oborevwori, who has personally experienced the congestion, emphasized that the flyover aligns seamlessly with his administration's MORE Agenda — an acronym for Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Economic Advancement.
To minimize disruptions during construction, the state had earlier invested nearly ₦6 billion in alternative routes, including Uduere, Okogbe, Oru, Edo streets, and Royal Avenue linking to Agbarha-Otor Road. These interim measures have already eased pressure on the junction, demonstrating proactive planning.
Responding to the warm reception and commendations, Governor Oborevwori expressed profound gratitude to the monarch, the people of Ughelli Kingdom, and all dignitaries present. He reaffirmed his commitment to delivering high-impact infrastructure that boosts traffic flow, enhances road safety, stimulates economic activities, and fosters inclusive growth across Delta State.
The groundbreaking ceremony unfolded amid jubilation from residents, local leaders, and stakeholders, including the Chairman of Ughelli North Local Government Council, Hon. Jaro Egbo, who described the project as transformative and long overdue. Attendees, including the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, and other top officials, hailed it as a decisive step toward ending Ughelli's traffic woes.
In a related show of solidarity, the governor visited the Ughelli residence of prominent industrialist and political figure, Olorogun Morrison Olori, founder of the Ukodo Nation Political Support Group. Olori and group members commended Oborevwori for his statewide development initiatives, assuring him of their unwavering support ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Olorogun Olori, a key mobilizer in Delta politics, has consistently rallied behind the governor's vision. The Ukodo Nation, known for grassroots advocacy and endorsements of progressive leadership, views these infrastructure feats as evidence of effective governance that benefits all Deltans.
This flyover is part of a broader infrastructure renewal push under the MORE Agenda. In the 2026 budget — presented as the “Budget of Accelerating the MORE Agenda” with a record ₦1.664 trillion allocation (70% for capital expenditure) — the state earmarked substantial funds for roads, flyovers, and urban development. The Otovwodo project complements near-completed flyovers at PTI Junction, DSC Roundabout, and Enerhen Junction, also handled by Julius Berger, and aligns with upcoming ones like the Uromi Junction Flyover in Agbor.
The governor has assured timely execution, with Julius Berger's Managing Director, Peer Lubasch, committing to delivery within agreed timelines while maintaining high standards. Oborevwori urged residents to exercise patience and cooperate with traffic management during construction, noting the project's potential to create thousands of direct and indirect jobs.
Experts and observers see this as a model for urban transformation in Nigeria's oil-rich Niger Delta region, where rapid urbanization often outpaces infrastructure. By addressing long-standing bottlenecks, the Otovwodo Flyover is expected to unlock economic potential, attract investors, boost local businesses, and improve connectivity along the vital East-West corridor.
As Delta State continues to prioritize prudent resource use, transparency, and people-centered development — without heavy borrowing — projects like this reinforce Governor Oborevwori's promise of "Renewed Hope for MORE." The monarch's prayers and the political leader's endorsement signal strong community backing, positioning Ughelli for a brighter, more modern future.
With construction now underway, the Otovwodo Flyover stands as a symbol of progress, promising smoother journeys, safer roads, and lasting prosperity for generations of Deltans.
