Fubara Commissions Reconstructed 19.79km Buguma-Degema-Abonnema Road

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has commissioned the reconstructed 19.79-kilometre Buguma-Degema-Abonnema Road, describing the project as a major intervention to ease transportation, improve security and boost economic activities in riverine communities.

The road, which was executed by Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, connects communities across the Asari-Toru, Degema and Akuku-Toru Local Government Areas of the state.

The project was awarded by the Fubara administration in September 2024 and completed within a relatively short period, replacing a previously dilapidated corridor that had caused prolonged travel delays and raised security concerns among residents and motorists.

Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, Fubara said the project was driven by his personal commitment to addressing the poor condition of the road, which he said had also created opportunities for criminal activities.

He noted that the reconstruction would significantly improve movement and security along the corridor.

According to him, the road is a vital route for people travelling to Abonnema and other riverine communities, adding that its completion fulfilled a promise he made after witnessing the condition of the road during an earlier visit.

Fubara said his administration was committed to executing projects that would have a direct and meaningful impact on the lives of residents.

He also reaffirmed his commitment to completing the Trans-Kalabari Highway, another major project aimed at connecting several coastal communities across Rivers State.

The governor commended residents of the affected communities for supporting the project and providing an enabling environment for its smooth execution.

Commissioning the road, the Amanyanabo of Abonnema Kingdom, King Desrael Gbobo Bob-Manuel, commended the state government for what he described as rapid infrastructure development.

The monarch said the reconstructed road had drastically reduced travel time and improved safety for residents of the riverine communities.

He recalled that travelling from the communities to Port Harcourt was previously a difficult and uncertain journey, but said the improved road had now made the trip considerably faster.

King Bob-Manuel also said the road would support economic activities by enabling fishermen to transport their catches directly to markets in Port Harcourt, thereby reducing losses and improving their earnings.

He added that the improved road corridor would make the riverine communities more attractive to investors and create new opportunities for economic growth.