Rivers State Governor Sir Siminalayi Fubara has expressed satisfaction with the progress recorded on the ongoing Trans-Kalabari Road project, revealing that about 75 per cent of the critical piling work has been completed.
Governor Fubara made this known on Monday while addressing journalists after an on-the-spot inspection of the 12.5-kilometre road project, connecting the state capital to several Kalabari communities across the sea.
A statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Nelson Chukwudi, said that during the inspection, the governor rode a boat from a jetty at Rumuolumeni in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area through the rivers and creeks on the project route.
The project was awarded to Lubrik Construction Company Limited on May 15, 2024, and has an initial 32-month completion timeline.
The Governor said the visit aimed to verify reports from the Ministry of Works regarding the project’s advancement. He commended the contractors for their dedication and described the progress as “a true reflection of hard work and commitment to excellence.”
“The project’s first phase takes us to Bakana, and features four major river-crossing bridges and nearly five deck-on-pile structures. The terrain is difficult, and the engineering work required is complex. However, to the glory of God, I can confirm that the reports I’ve been receiving are accurate. Almost 75% of the piling job, which is the most critical part of the project, has been achieved,” Governor Fubara said.
He emphasised that the Trans-Kalabari Road is one of the state’s most technically demanding infrastructure projects due to its challenging marine terrain. Still, he reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to deliver it on schedule.
Governor Fubara highlighted the road’s strategic importance in connecting the Kalabari Kingdom to Port Harcourt and stimulating economic growth across riverine communities.
“This is a key project that will turn around the lives of the Kalabari people immediately, once it is concluded. By the grace of God, in the next six months, if we return here for inspection, we might be driving across the bridge,” he said.
Governor Fubara assured Rivers people that his administration remains focused on delivering transformative infrastructure projects that will improve lives and bring lasting development to rural communities.
“We have promised to our people to embark on projects that will change lives and bring development, which is a testament to that commitment,” he added.
