Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has assured residents that the over 50-kilometre Port Harcourt Ring Road project will be completed and ready for use by October this year.
The governor gave the assurance on Tuesday while speaking to journalists after inspecting the project, which cuts across about five local government areas of the state. He said the road is expected to significantly ease traffic congestion within Port Harcourt and surrounding communities.
Fubara reaffirmed his commitment to completing the project, noting that it was initiated by his predecessor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, whom he fondly described as “my oga.”
According to the governor, Wike had expressed the hope that the successful delivery of the Ring Road would earn him the appreciation and goodwill of Rivers people, a vision he is determined to fulfil.
The governor disclosed that the construction firm handling the project, Julius Berger Nigeria Limited, has assured the state government of meeting the October deadline, provided funding remains steady.
He added that despite the challenges facing the state, his administration would continue to release funds to ensure the project progresses without interruption.
“The project was designed to last about 36 months, and we are already close to that timeline. That is why we came to confirm the level of work done so far,” Fubara said.
“They have reassured us that by October the project will be delivered. I strongly believe that this promise I am making to the people of Rivers State will be fulfilled. What they need is funding, and from my end, the push will be there.”
Describing the Ring Road as a strategic infrastructure project, Fubara said it remains central to Rivers State’s long-term urban and economic development plans.
“This project is very important because of the person who conceived it, my oga, the Honourable Minister. He had a big vision and believed that if this project was completed in record time, the people would be happy,” he said.
“Regardless of whatever is happening, it is my desire and responsibility to ensure that this vision becomes a reality.”
The Port Harcourt Ring Road project was flagged off at the start of the Fubara administration with a 36-month completion timeline. When completed, it is expected to serve as a major bypass around the state capital, reduce pressure on inner-city roads, improve access to industrial and residential areas, and strengthen the overall transportation network in Rivers State.
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