By Rita Enemuru, Reporting
RIVERS State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has assured residents of the state that the 50.15-kilometre Port Harcourt Ring Road project will be completed by October this year.
The governor gave the assurance after inspecting key sections of the over ₦190 billion infrastructure project, which spans six local government areas—Port Harcourt, Obio/Akpor, Ikwerre, Etche, Eleme and Ogu-Bolo.
Governor Fubara said the construction firm handling the project, Julius Berger Nigeria Limited, has reaffirmed its commitment to meeting the delivery timeline, provided funding remains consistent.
He assured that, despite prevailing challenges, his administration would continue to release funds to ensure uninterrupted work on the landmark project, in fulfilment of his commitment to the people of Rivers State.
The inspection tour began at the Eleme axis, specifically the Refinery Junction, and proceeded through Oyigbo and Obio/Akpor, terminating at the river-crossing bridge linking the Agip/RSU/Eagle Island axis of Port Harcourt to the Mgbuodohia community in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area.
Addressing journalists at the bridge site, the governor explained that the inspection was aimed at assessing the level of work done as the project approaches the end of its initial 36-month completion period.
He noted that significant progress had been recorded across several sections of the road, adding that the contractors had assured the state government of timely delivery within the revised schedule.
“The project was initially designed to last about 36 months, and we are now approaching that timeline. It became necessary to physically assess the progress made so far,” he said.
“From what you can see, a lot has been achieved. In our discussions, the contractors have continued to assure us that they will deliver the project by October. From my assessment, what they require is sustained funding, and from our end, the necessary push.”
Governor Fubara disclosed that Julius Berger Nigeria Limited has confirmed that, with continued financial and institutional support, the Port Harcourt Ring Road will be completed by October 2026.
He described the Ring Road as a priority project of his administration, stressing its critical role in improving the state’s transportation network and meeting public expectations.
The governor further highlighted the strategic importance of the project, describing it as a long-term solution to traffic congestion and the pressures of urban expansion in Rivers State.
“I strongly believe that the promise we made to our people to deliver this project by October will be fulfilled, by God’s grace,” he said.
“This project is particularly important because of the vision behind it. My predecessor, the Honourable Minister who conceived it, had a far-reaching vision, believing that its timely completion would bring immense benefits to the people.
“Despite the challenges, it remains my firm commitment to ensure that this vision is realised. This underscores how important the project is, not only to this administration but to everyone who genuinely means well for Rivers State.”
The Port Harcourt Ring Road project, which was inaugurated in 2023, includes the construction of six flyovers and a river-crossing bridge, and is designed to ease traffic congestion, improve connectivity and stimulate economic growth across the state.
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