The Delta State Government has commended construction giant Setraco for the progress recorded on the Ayakoromo Bridge project across the River Forcados, while urging the contractor to sustain the pace of work and meet the December 2027 completion deadline.
The Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, gave the commendation on Thursday during an inspection of the project alongside engineers from the ministry.
Izeze acknowledged the challenges posed by the difficult terrain and prevailing weather conditions but expressed satisfaction with the progress made so far, noting that there was still room for improvement.
According to him, engineers from the Ministry of Works had confirmed that construction was progressing in line with the approved schedule, while the quality of engineering work remained encouraging.
“Setraco has done appreciably well, considering the weather and the terrain. However, there is still room for improvement. Our engineers have confirmed that work is progressing according to schedule, and the quality of engineering is encouraging,” he said.
The commissioner urged the contractor to intensify efforts to ensure the timely completion of the bridge, which is expected to improve connectivity between Egbo-Ide in Ughelli South Local Government Area and Ayakoromo in Burutu Local Government Area.
He also praised the ministry’s engineers for maintaining effective supervision during his temporary absence, stressing the importance of sustained monitoring to ensure that construction standards and delivery timelines were not compromised.
Izeze expressed confidence that Setraco would maintain its engineering standards and deliver a durable project that would serve the needs of the people.
“We hope Setraco will maintain the standards it is known for, keep to the agreed timeline and deliver a quality project that will serve the people,” he said.
Speaking during the inspection, Setraco’s Project Manager, Nabil Chahiene, also expressed confidence that the bridge would be completed by December 2027.
“By His grace, the project will be completed in 2027,” Chahiene assured.
Awarded on December 16, 2022, at a contract sum of more than N39 billion, the Ayakoromo Bridge is a strategic infrastructure project designed to provide a vital link between Egbo-Ide and Ayakoromo communities across the River Forcados.
Upon completion, the bridge is expected to ease transportation challenges, facilitate the movement of people and goods, boost economic activities and improve access to essential services for residents of the two communities and neighbouring areas.
The Delta State Government has reiterated its commitment to ensuring effective project supervision and timely delivery as construction continues towards the December 2027 target.
