Delta State Invests in Remarkable N78B Construction Projects

Delta State Invests in Remarkable N78B Construction Projects.

The vibrant and pace-setting government of Delta State on Wednesday, October 18, 2023, signed a life-changing contract agreement for multiple road construction work worth N78B (seventy-eight billion naira), with Nigerian-based German frontline engineering construction company, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc.

Delta State Invests in Remarkable N78B Construction Projects

The contract covers the following:

• Road expansion of a section of the DSC/NPA Expressway.
• A cloverleaf interchange at the existing Effurun flyover.
• Two pedestrian bridges, flyover bridges at Enerhen junction to Marine Gate, DSC roundabout and PTI junction.

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori was very confident in Julius Berger’s ability to deliver on schedule, based on their enviable and exceptional track record in road construction work in Nigeria, for several years now.

The Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley Emu, and the Honourable Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, signed on behalf of the State Government, while the Managing Director of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Engr. Dr. Lars Richter, and the Regional Manager, Engr. Friedrich Wieser, signed for the construction giant.

Governor Oborevwori and Engr. Dr. Lars Richter after the contract-signing ceremony

There are two major reasons for the choice Julius Berger, according to Governor Oborevwori. 

The reasons were:

• Their reputation and excellent record in road construction; and
• Their experience in road construction in riverine terrains, as evident from their successful projects in other states with similar topography to Warri.

Governor Oborevwori noted that the partnership marks a significant step forward in his administration’s plan to initiate an infrastructural revolution, a key component of his MORE agenda.

The governor used the occasion to assure the entire people of Delta State of more impactful projects across various senatorial districts, as he remains committed to enhancing the quality of life for all residents.

While speaking further at the historic event, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori said the signing ceremony was a significant step forward in his administration’s plan to start an infrastructural revolution that would change the face of Warri and its environs.

He said, “The signing event is the high point of months of vigorous planning, meetings, reviews, and tough negotiations. I am pleased that we have reached a point of agreement.

“It is pertinent to know that this is the first time in Delta State that we are engaging Julius Berger Plc in construction jobs. They have been in Delta. They worked in NPA, but this is the first time the state government is engaging them for construction projects.

“On behalf of the government and the people of Delta State, I want to express my deep appreciation to Julius Berger PLC, the Ministries of Works (Highway and Urban roads), Justice, Finance, and the Office of the Secretary to the State Government; for the countless energy invested in the process.

“I am aware that the road to this signing ceremony was tasking and draining but you stayed on course and, today, we are reaping the fruit of your diligence and resilience.”

The Multiplier Effect and Positive Collateral Benefits of the Road Investments to Deltans

On the good multiplier effect and positive collateral benefits of the road investments to Deltans, Governor Oborevwori has this to say: “…it is often the case with road construction projects, there will be direct employment benefits for our people, especially, engineers, artisans and even food vendors. Transporters and so many others in the construction value chain also stand to benefit.”

In addition to what the governor has said, the lofty projects, when fully completed, will boost, in a considerable degree, the ease of doing business in Delta State, thereby increasing the economic fortunes and prosperity of Deltans.

Why the Investment is Described as Being Remarkable

When something is remarkable, it means that it is unusual or surprising in a way that causes people to take notice. It simply means astonishing.

The N78 B is remarkable not because of its value or the figure involved.

NO, it’s not!

It’s because of two reasons:

• One, the good reputation of Julius Berger; and
• Two, this is the first time, since the creation of Delta State on August 27, 1991, that the construction giant was engaged to do construction work for the state.

“…it is pertinent to know that this is the first time in Delta State that we are engaging Julius Berger Plc in construction jobs. They have been in Delta, they worked in NPA, but this is the first time the State Government is engaging them for construction projects,” corroborated Governor Oborevwori.

This unarguably explains why Deltans of all ages and statuses, including members of the opposition parties in the state, have continued to pour encomiums on the working governor for breaking the jinx of choosing a renowned contractor for road construction in the state.

On his part, the Managing Director of Julius Berger thanked Governor Oborevwori for giving his company the opportunity to deliver on the projects. He also commended the governor for the vision and foresight in a huge investment and for the commencement of a new era for the people of the State.

“We commend the Delta State Government for these projects, and we are honoured to be the chosen technical partners for the delivery of this vision. We are also looking forward to a successful partnership, a great achievement of the vision and the commencement of a new era to the benefit of the people of Delta State”, he said.

Delta State Invests in Remarkable N78B Construction Projects. THE END.

By Chief Tony Amechi, Special Adviser to the Governor of Delta State on Investments/Publisher of TonyAmechi.com

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