Julius Berger Delivers 19.79km Road, Rehabilitates Seven Bridges In Rivers
Julius Berger Nigeria Plc has completed the construction of the 19.79-kilometre Buguma-Abalama-Tema-Degema-Abonnema Road in Rivers State, alongside the rehabilitation of seven bridges along the corridor.
The project, which cuts across Asari-Toru, Degema and Akuku-Toru Local Government Areas, was formally commissioned on Monday in the presence of Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, traditional rulers, community leaders, government officials and residents.
The newly completed road is expected to improve connectivity among communities along the corridor, reduce travel time, enhance road safety and provide better access to businesses and economic opportunities.
Speaking at the commissioning, the Director, Administration of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Dr Abdulazziz Kaita, described the project as a major contribution to the Rivers State Government’s infrastructure development efforts.
Kaita said the successful completion of the project demonstrated the company’s technical capacity, professionalism and commitment to delivering quality infrastructure.
He said, “This project represents a significant contribution to the Rivers State Government’s infrastructure development agenda and will greatly enhance accessibility and connectivity among communities within the three local government areas.”
According to him, the project was delivered despite the exceptional circumstances surrounding the six-month period of Emergency Rule in Rivers State.
He assured that Julius Berger would continue to apply high engineering standards and deploy the expertise and resources required to deliver infrastructure capable of providing lasting value to communities.
Governor Fubara, while commending Julius Berger for the quality of work, also appreciated the host communities for their cooperation throughout the construction period.
The governor described the road as a critical gateway for Abalama and neighbouring communities, saying improved access would facilitate the movement of goods and services and create a more conducive environment for businesses to thrive.
“This road is a critical gateway for the Abalama people and neighbouring communities. In the past, several challenges existed along this corridor, but today those concerns are being addressed,” Fubara said.
He added that the improved road network would enable residents to access opportunities capable of improving their livelihoods.
Earlier, the Rivers State Commissioner for Works, Engr. Prof. Temple Nwofor, said the project comprised the 19.79-kilometre roadway, drainage systems, culverts, street lighting, walkways and other ancillary works.
Nwofor also disclosed that seven existing bridges along the corridor were rehabilitated as part of the project.
He said the infrastructure was completed in compliance with specified engineering standards and requirements and was now ready for use by residents and businesses in the affected communities.
The commissioning attracted a large turnout of residents, traditional rulers and community leaders, with cultural displays and celebrations held along the route.
The completed Buguma-Abalama-Tema-Degema-Abonnema corridor is expected to strengthen transportation links among communities in the three local government areas while supporting movement, trade and other economic activities across the region.
