By JKNewsMedia
FROM THE expansive Port Harcourt Ring Road to the Emohua-Abalama/Tema Junction Road and the Ahoada-Omoku-Ndoni Road, ongoing construction efforts are opening up new economic opportunities.
At the helm is Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, a key player in enhancing transport corridors, facilitating movement, and unlocking business potential. The company told media executives that infrastructure development across Rivers State is progressing rapidly as critical road and bridge projects reshape access and mobility for communities.
Of note is the 15.24km dualisation of the Emohua-Abalama/Tema Junction Road, just outside Port Harcourt, which is well underway.
Phase 1 has been completed, and Phase 2, which began in November 2024, continues despite security challenges in the region.
The project, incorporating drainage systems and solar-powered street lighting, is expected to enhance travel times and safety, according to Project Manager Finn Drosdowski.
Work is also progressing on the Ahoada-Omoku-Ndoni Road Extension, involving the dualisation of the 25.4km Ahoada-Omoku Road, linking Ogbo Okudu Road Junction in Ahoada East to Omoku in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area.
The project is nearing 75% completion, with drainage installations ongoing in township areas. Resident relocations have been facilitated, with compensation provided for affected properties.
Additionally, Julius Berger has commenced the reconstruction of the Buguma-Abalama-Tema-Degema-Abonnema Road, a vital 19.6km link for riverine communities.
This project, including drainage systems and the rehabilitation of seven bridges, started in December 2024.
Engineers have confirmed that pre-construction surveys informed the decision to repurpose milled road material as a sub-base to enhance sustainability.
The initiative has also created local employment opportunities, with community suppliers engaged and workforce training aligned with modern construction standards.
Amid these projects, Julius Berger said it remains committed to delivering the Port Harcourt Ring Road Project on schedule.
Awarded in 2023, the 50.15km dual carriageway is one of Rivers State’s most significant infrastructure undertakings, connecting six Local Government Areas: Port Harcourt, Obio Akpor, Ikwerre, Etche, Eleme, and Oyigbo. The project features five flyovers and a river-crossing bridge, dramatically improving intra-city mobility.
At Ozuoba Flyover, workers are noted to have commenced road connections to Rumumasi Flyover, while commercial activity continues. In Rumumasi, traders and transport operators are adjusting as traffic patterns shift to accommodate construction.
Roads linking Rumumasi to Aluu Flyover, Aluu to Kala Flyover, and Kala to Elelenwo Flyover are nearing completion, with final drainage works in progress near Kala Flyover.
Along the East-West Road axis, crews are installing U-shaped drainage channels and road dividers, marking the final phase before the road’s opening.
At the project’s terminal point, construction teams are actively engaged in U-channel and median works.
Resident relocation and compensation have been integral to the project, with Julius Berger ensuring adherence to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) commitments.
The company has provided temporary access roads and employment opportunities for locals while continuing to support future professionals through its Young Engineers Programme, which focuses on construction and project management training.
Julius Berger’s Project Manager explained the wider impact of these projects:
“We are contributing to Rivers State’s long-term growth through infrastructure that transforms communities.
“Every road and bridge we construct reinforces our commitment to progress.”
