Residents of Agbor, Ughelli and other communities across Delta State have commended Julius Berger Nigeria Plc for the ongoing road infrastructure projects, especially the completed flyover bridges in Agbor and Ugheli, and the start of Warri Ring Road.
The residents expressed optimism that the developments will significantly improve transportation, boost commerce and accelerate economic growth across the state.
They described the Warri Ring Road as strategic and a major transport corridor expected to enhance connectivity and support industrial development in the Niger Delta.
Residents also described the projects as transformative investments capable of reducing traffic congestion, improving mobility and positioning Delta State as a more attractive destination for business and investment.
In Agbor, community members said the flyover project would strengthen the town’s growing commercial status while making movement easier for commuters and traders.
Chukwudi Nwosu, an Agbor-based entrepreneur, speaking on the anticipated impact of the infrastructure work, said improved road networks are essential for sustainable economic development. “Infrastructure is the foundation of economic growth. These projects will make it easier for businesses to operate, attract investors and open new opportunities for young people and entrepreneurs across the state,” he added.
In Ughelli, residents welcomed the Otovwodo flyover bridge, describing it as a long-term investment in the future of Delta State and its economy.
Development observers note that the ongoing Warri Ring Road, alongside the ongoing flyover projects, is expected to improve transportation efficiency, facilitate industrial expansion and strengthen trade linkages across the state. Beyond easing traffic challenges, the stakeholders believe the projects will create substantial employment opportunities during and after construction.
In particular, industry analysts say large-scale road and bridge developments typically generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs in engineering, construction, logistics, equipment operations, security services, material supply, hospitality and other support sectors.
The Warri/Effurun roads and flyover bridges include extensive road expansion works, the construction of three major flyovers, drainage systems and other supporting infrastructure, requiring a sizeable workforce across multiple locations.
Economic experts further project that the long-term benefits could extend beyond construction activities, with enhanced road infrastructure encouraging investments in manufacturing, real estate, agriculture, commerce and logistics.
According to Efe Edewor, a Warri businessman, improved transportation networks could have far-reaching effects on business performance and economic productivity in the state.
He said the Ring Road and flyovers across Delta State will not only improve mobility but also drive commerce and industrial growth. When transportation becomes more efficient, businesses save costs, investments increase and local economies become stronger.
Despite recent heavy rainfall across the state, Julius Berger workers continued operations on the Warri Ring Road and flyover projects in Ughelli and Agbor over the weekend, underscoring the company’s commitment to delivery timelines.
Thomas Haug, project manager at Julius Berger, while providing an update on the projects, confirmed that construction has commenced on the first 11-kilometre section of the Ring Road.
“Work has begun on the first 11 kilometres of the Ring Road project, and we are on it,” Haug said.
He also informed that the company has received letters of substantial completion from the Delta State Government for the DSC, Enerhen and PTI flyovers, adding, “all is going on well. We are completing the jobs, and it is good to see the progress being made with dedicated workers from Effurun to Ughelli to Agbor”.
Communities in the operational areas of the projects have expressed confidence that, upon completion, the projects would serve as catalysts for long-term economic transformation, strengthen Delta State’s position as a major hub for trade, logistics, investment and sustainable development in the Niger Delta region.
