The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has said work on the 3.75-kilometre Okrika-Borikiri Road and three bridges will move faster following the payment of compensation to affected property owners in Borikiri, Port Harcourt.
This was disclosed during an inspection of the project by the Assistant Director of Utilities, Infrastructure Development and Waterways at the NDDC, Engr. Martins Isichei. He explained that the compensation issues that had delayed work on the Borikiri section of the project had now been resolved.
According to him, the NDDC has paid compensation to property owners whose buildings are located along the project route in Borikiri. He said the commission is expecting residents to move out of the affected areas so that demolition of structures within the project’s right of way can begin.
Isichei explained that the project includes the construction of three major bridges: the 180-metre Kolabi Bridge at Etche Waterfront, the 1,120-metre Abotoru Bridge located midway along the route, and the 490-metre Okpoka Bridge.
He noted that construction work on the Okrika section has made significant progress despite challenges encountered on the waterways. One of the setbacks, he said, was a collision involving a vessel and an existing bridge pile, which forced engineers to redesign part of the structure.
He expressed confidence that the project would greatly improve transportation in the area when completed. According to him, the new road will help reduce traffic congestion on Refinery Road and provide a shorter and easier route between Okrika and Port Harcourt.
“The Borikiri section did not witness much progress because of compensation-related issues. Now that the matter has been settled, work will begin there in earnest,” he said.
Also speaking during the inspection, the Project Consultant, Engr. Azu Chukwuma, said the project design was reviewed after work resumed to reflect present realities and current construction needs.
He assured stakeholders that efforts were being made to begin the launching of the first set of bridge beams soon. However, he noted that transporting materials and equipment through the waterways remains expensive.
Chukwuma also commended members of the host communities for their support and cooperation, saying their positive attitude had helped the project move forward without major disruptions.
Representing the construction company, Engr. Maroun Kassouf said work on the bridge beams was already at an advanced stage and that installation would commence soon. He added that construction at the Borikiri end would be easier because the river there is shallower.
The Vice Chairman of the Okrika Community Development Committee, Mr. Minengibi Ferdinand, thanked the NDDC for undertaking the project. He said the road and bridges would provide an alternative route to Okrika and help reduce pressure on the busy East-West Road.
Ferdinand described the project as a major development initiative that would boost economic activities, improve transportation, and bring lasting benefits to communities in the area when completed.
