…as Gov Fubara Reassures Completion of Landmark Infrastructure
Julius Berger Nigeria Plc has returned to site for the continuation of the 62.65-kilometre Port Harcourt Ring Road project, following months of suspension due to funding challenges.
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, confirmed the development during an on-site inspection tour of the project on Monday, assuring residents that his administration remains resolute in completing the massive infrastructure project described as one of the most ambitious in the state’s history.
Speaking with journalists at the Eneka Flyover section of the project, Governor Fubara explained that discussions with the contractor had yielded positive results, leading to the firm’s return to site even before the conclusion of all financial and technical negotiations.
“You are aware that this project was not abandoned but somehow, for lack of funds, the contractor withdrew from site,” Fubara said. “We have been discussing with them, and they gave me their word that although we have not finished all the discussions, they have already moved back to site, and I’m here to confirm that.”
The governor reiterated that his administration remains committed to infrastructure development as a key driver of economic growth and social stability, promising that the Ring Road project would be completed and delivered for public use.
“I want to make this promise to our good people of Rivers State,” he said. “This project that we started, by the special grace of God, we are going to complete it. We owe our people a responsibility to deliver on our commitments, and this project will not be an exception.”
The Port Harcourt Ring Road project, which cuts across six local government areas—Port Harcourt City, Obio/Akpor, Ikwerre, Etche, Oyigbo, and Eleme—was originally awarded for ₦195 billion. According to government records, ₦150 billion was released to Julius Berger as mobilisation to forestall variations and possible abandonment.
However, the project stalled after negotiations between the contractor and the immediate past Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd.), broke down over the company’s request for an upward review of the contract sum due to inflationary pressures in the economy.
Governor Fubara, during the inspection, described the project as a strategic investment that would decongest Port Harcourt, open up new economic corridors, and enhance connectivity across the state.
He assured residents that his administration would sustain the current momentum and ensure the timely completion of the project to serve as a symbol of renewed governance focus and infrastructural advancement in Rivers State.
