By Olaide Ajibola, JKNMedia Reporter
AN INCREASE in the budget for several ongoing projects has been approved by the Delta State Government due to fluctuating costs and additional requirements.
This decision was revealed by Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, Commissioner for Information, during a press briefing on the outcomes of the State Executive Council (EXCO) meeting led by Governor Rt. Hon Sheriff Oborevwori in Asaba.
Dr. Osuoza highlighted that the revisions were prompted by changes in unit rates and the necessity for additional work.
Notable among these projects is the construction of drainage channels from Owa-Alero through Owa-Alizomo and Owa-Ofie to link the Iyi Ama stream in Ika North East Local Government Area.
Adjustments in project scope and unit rates have led to an increased contract sum for this initiative.
The EXCO said they have also sanctioned budget increases for road construction projects in Effurun and Ekpan within Uwvie Local Government Area, citing fluctuations in unit rates and the need for additional maintenance, rehabilitation, and reconstruction efforts.
Similarly, the cost of constructing Stadium Road in Ugborodo, Warri South West Local Government Area, has been revised upwards due to rising prices of construction materials and equipment.
Additional projects with revised budgets include:
The construction of phases I and II of Jeremiah Street, Nwawolo Road, Franca Nkem Okolo Drive, Sir Obiora Obidigwe Street, and a discharge drain to Ngozi Ebora Street in Okpanam, Oshimili South Local Government Area.
Completion of the dualisation of Ughelli/Asaba Road, Sector A, from kilometer 0+000 to 39+000, including a spur to Oleh.
Dr. Osuoza noted that approval was also given for the upward review of the contract sum for completing the Ogwashi-Uku to Asaba section of the Ughelli/Asaba Road dualisation.
The state EXCO has additionally approved the completion of the dualisation of Ughelli-Asaba Road, Sector C1, from kilometer 92+000 to 117+000, spanning Ossisa to Kwale Junction in Ogwashi-Uku.
In Okpe Local Government Area, the EXCO has greenlit the rehabilitation and asphalt overlay of Oviri Court, Eruiyen, Akugele, and Ojedi/Adagbasa Road.
Furthermore, Dr. Osuoza announced the approval of three traditional rulers’ appointments: His Royal Majesty, Obi Charles Ikechukwu Abiagum as the Obi of Ubulubu Kingdom in Aniocha North Local Government Area; His Royal Majesty, Elder John Arimoro Alika lbiri as the Okpara-Uku of Idumuesah in Ika North East Local Government Area; and His Royal Majesty, Edward Isama Ofuezuem as the Okpara-Uku of Obikwele in Ndokwa East Local Government Area.
In a related briefing, the Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, commended the state government for saving over N6 billion in the Ughelli/Asaba dualisation project through the negotiation skills of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.
He assured the public that the administration is committed to maintaining high standards and ensuring value for money in all projects.
Additionally, the Delta State Government’s efforts to develop the Asaba Waterfront are progressing, aimed at urban renewal and boosting the state’s tourism potential. Dr. Kingsley Emu, Secretary to the State Government (SSG), discussed the project with community representatives and consultants, emphasizing its significance.
The Asaba Waterfront City project, a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) venture, involves 1,000 hectares of land along the River Niger. The state government holds a 15% stake, Asaba communities 5%, and private investors 80%. The project is set to transform the area into a modern, tech-driven city with top-tier infrastructure, enhancing the region’s appeal and economic prospects. Dr. Emu highlighted the substantial sacrifices made by the government to ensure the project’s success, including the construction of a six-lane road to bolster urban renewal efforts.
The Asaba Waterfront City is expected to become a major tourist attraction and a significant revenue generator, contributing to the overall development and modernization of Delta State.
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