..As Zamfara Gov Commissions Ring Road, Bridges

Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has pledged to attract an institution of higher learning to Opobo Town to foster sustainable academic and economic growth in the area.

The Governor also committed to land reclamation efforts aimed at creating more space to accommodate critical infrastructure, thereby improving the quality of life and supporting robust employment opportunities.

Governor Fubara made the pledge in Opobo Town during the inauguration of the 7km Opobo Town Ring Road, which includes three crossing bridges, in Opobo/Nkoro Local Government Area on Monday. The road is designed to improve connectivity and accessibility within Opobo Town and neighboring communities.

Speaking at the event, the Governor emphasized that these development initiatives, when fully realized, would elevate Opobo Town and enhance its status among other local government areas in the state.

He said, “Other things are going to come. We intend to bring a higher institution to this place. We will also undertake more reclamation because land is a major challenge here. We will work to ensure that we create an environment where people will be empowered and not dependent on me. Our goal is to create opportunities for more people to be gainfully employed. That is the only way Opobo will grow.”

On the Opobo Ring Road project, Governor Fubara explained that while the project was flagged off on May 28, 2023, by the previous administration, it was his administration that redesigned and executed it to meet the current standards.

Acknowledging the strong support from the people of the local government, the Governor urged them to continue backing the government, assuring them that their support was not in vain.

“This project, which was conceived in May 2023 and flagged off by the previous administration, was redesigned and executed by us to meet the high standard we are celebrating today. I am happy to inaugurate it, and it fills me with joy,” Fubara said.

He also noted, “I know your problems, I know your faces, and I know your names. I appreciate the support you have given us, and I assure you that your trust in us was not a mistake. We are stronger every day.”

Governor Fubara urged the political leaders, traditional rulers, and residents of Opobo/Nkoro to continue maintaining peace, which has long been a hallmark of the community.

“So, it is not a mistake when people say Fubara is peaceful. Opobo/Nkoro is one of the most peaceful local government areas. While we are not crime-free, the level of crime here is manageable and under control due to the unity and understanding among us,” he added.

In a show of solidarity, the special guest of honor, Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State, praised Governor Fubara as a visionary leader whose development policies have improved the lives of Rivers people. He highlighted that infrastructure projects such as the Opobo Ring Road play a significant role in promoting socio-economic growth, enhancing well-being, and facilitating progress.

“The Opobo Ring Road and Bridges will undoubtedly enhance connectivity, promote trade, provide access to essential services, and stimulate economic activities within and beyond the state,” Governor Lawal said. “These developments will also attract investment, boost tourism, and strengthen the sense of pride and belonging among the people of Opobo.”

Rivers State Commissioner for Works, Barrister Elloka Tasie-Amadi, provided a technical description of the road project, explaining that the terrain posed significant challenges. He shared that the road is 7km long, 7.3 meters wide, and includes three bridges, with approximately 4km of drainage systems. Due to the nature of the soil, large amounts of imported materials were used for construction, including sharp sand and stone bases.

“To meet the design specifications, we used sand-cement stabilization, stone bases, and wearing courses, ensuring the road’s durability,” Tasie-Amadi said.

The Executive Chairman of Opobo/Nkoro Local Government Area, Hon. Enyiada Cookey-Gam, described the inauguration of the Ring Road as historic, emphasizing that the community had embraced the project and was committed to protecting it for the long-term benefit of the people.

Hadi Chehade, Managing Director of Lubrik Construction Company, the firm that handled the project, expressed pride in being entrusted with such an iconic development. He thanked Governor Fubara for the opportunity to contribute to the state’s development agenda.