The Delta State Government has expressed satisfaction with the pace and quality of work on the ongoing N39.3 billion flyover at Otovwodo Junction along the Ughelli/Patani axis of the East-West Highway in Ughelli, Ughelli North Local Government Area.
Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, gave the assessment on Friday during an inspection visit to the project site, where he commended the contractor, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, for maintaining high standards in line with contractual specifications.
Speaking to journalists, Izeze dismissed claims that contractors operate without strict supervision in the state, emphasizing that all government projects undergo rigorous monitoring.
“There is a misconception that Julius Berger operates without supervision. Not in Delta State. Every firm working with the government is closely supervised to ensure compliance with standards,” he said.
The commissioner noted that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has insisted on value for money in all state-funded projects, a directive he said guides the Ministry’s oversight activities.
“We have come here with experienced engineers to identify and correct any grey areas. So far, the work aligns with the Bill of Engineering Measurement, and we are satisfied with the progress,” he added, while urging the contractor to accelerate work to meet the agreed delivery timeline.
Izeze described the flyover as one of the “star projects” under the Oborevwori administration’s urban renewal agenda, highlighting design improvements over similar infrastructure such as the PTI flyover.
He explained that the Ughelli flyover incorporates a modern lighting system positioned at the median, with dual-facing lamps, and pedestrian walkways integrated into the structure, features he said were personally introduced by the governor.
“The governor has a keen eye for detail and insists on improvements. He is deeply committed to replicating global best practices in infrastructure across Delta State,” Izeze said.
Providing a technical update, the project’s Quality Assurance and Quality Control Manager, Engr. Frederick Onah, disclosed that the project, awarded in July 2025, has reached 23 percent overall completion.
According to him, key foundational components including piling, pile caps, and bridge piers have been fully completed, while pier heads are nearing completion.
He added that work is ongoing on retaining walls, bridge deck installation, and approach structures.
“Piling, pile caps, and piers are 100 percent completed. Pier heads are almost done, while retaining walls and other components are progressing steadily. We are currently working on the bridge deck and expect to begin concreting soon,” Onah explained.
He projected that, barring unforeseen constraints, the project could be completed by October, noting that construction timelines are subject to certain variables typical of large-scale infrastructure works.
Also speaking, the Community Liaison Officer, Ayo Emuobo, commended both the contractor and the state government for the rapid progress recorded since mobilization to site in October 2025.
He described the pace of work as impressive, noting that community cooperation has played a significant role in facilitating smooth project execution.
“With what we have seen so far, the speed of work is remarkable. The community, the government, and the contractors have all collaborated effectively to bring the project to this stage,” he said.
Further breakdown of progress shows that pier head works are about 70 percent complete, retaining walls stand at 35 percent, longitudinal beams at 60 percent, while culverts and drainage systems have reached approximately 70 percent completion.
The Otovwodo flyover project is expected to significantly ease traffic congestion and enhance connectivity along the busy East-West corridor upon completion.
