Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Thursday defied heavy rainfall to flag off the ₦21.3 billion Ugbolu–Okpanam Road project in Oshimili North Local Government Area — a move critics say underscores the administration’s growing obsession with high-cost infrastructure projects amid mounting public concern over transparency and fiscal priorities.
Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Oborevwori described the 12-kilometre road as a landmark in his administration’s drive to deliver “durable and sustainable infrastructure” under the MORE Agenda. “Today’s groundbreaking marks another significant milestone in furtherance of this administration’s MORE Agenda. Our infrastructure plan, as clearly outlined in the Agenda, is anchored on the prudent allocation of resources toward the delivery of reliable, high-quality, and durable road infrastructure across Delta State,” he said.
While the governor linked the project to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 9 and 11 — which advocate resilient infrastructure and sustainable cities — questions continue to trail the escalating cost of projects across the state. The contract, awarded to Levant Construction Company, is valued at ₦21,311,311,898.20, with a staggering 40 percent advance payment of ₦8.5 billion already disbursed.
Oborevwori maintained that the road would connect Ugbolu and Okpanam communities, improve access to Ibusa and Akwukwu-Igbo, and ease Asaba’s traffic congestion. He further promised that the project would “stimulate agricultural productivity, reduce crime along the corridor, and enhance socio-economic activities in Oshimili North.”
The Governor, however, assured that there would be no upward review of the project cost, saying: “As of today, my administration is not owing any contractor, whether for inherited or newly awarded projects. We have consistently maintained prompt payment within five days of certification to encourage timely project completion.”
Observers note that such assurances have become routine talking points at project flag-offs, even as concerns persist over the pace of work and cost efficiency across the state’s expanding infrastructure portfolio.
Oborevwori urged Levant Construction Company to sustain its reputation for quality and deliver the project on schedule. “Given their proven track record, I have no doubt that they will deliver satisfactorily. By the grace of God, we shall all be here again to commission this strategic road to the glory of God and the benefit of humanity,” he added.
Chairman of Oshimili North Local Government, Hon. Innocent Esewezie, praised the Governor for “honouring his promise” despite weather disruptions, describing the project as “a testament to the Governor’s transformative MORE Agenda.” He added: “Our confidence in your government remains absolute. The people of Oshimili North are proud to partake in the dividends of your administration’s developmental strides.”
Similarly, the Ugoani of Okpanam Kingdom, HRM Dr. Michael Mbanefo, lauded the Governor for what he called “progressive leadership,” describing the project as “a symbol of unity, connectivity, and growth.”
Managing Director of Levant Construction Company, Engr. Elie Tannous, pledged to complete the road on time and in full compliance with quality standards.
Despite the fanfare and symbolism, Thursday’s flag-off — attended by top political figures and traditional leaders — adds to a growing list of multimillion-naira road projects initiated under the Oborevwori administration. As the rain-soaked ceremony drew to a close, the key question remained whether the ₦21.3 billion Ugbolu–Okpanam Road would deliver lasting impact or become another expensive political showpiece.
