Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has assured residents that the over 50-kilometre Port Harcourt Ring Road project will be completed and delivered by October this year.
Governor Fubara gave the assurance on Tuesday after inspecting the ongoing project, which traverses at least five local government areas and is designed to ease traffic congestion within the Port Harcourt metropolis and surrounding communities.
According to the governor, the contractor handling the project, Julius Berger Nigeria Limited, has reaffirmed its commitment to meeting the October deadline, provided that funding remains consistent.
He pledged that despite prevailing challenges in the state, his administration would continue to make funds available to ensure steady progress on the project, in line with his commitment to the people of Rivers State.
The governor noted that although the project was originally scheduled for completion within 36 months, his administration deemed it necessary to assess the current level of progress.
“Initially, the project was planned to last about 36 months, and we are already approaching that timeline. We needed to verify the extent of work done so far,” he said.
“During our discussions, the contractors reassured us that they will deliver the project by October. I strongly believe this promise will be fulfilled. What they require is funding, and from my end, I will provide the necessary support,” Governor Fubara stated.
Describing the Ring Road as a strategic infrastructure project, Fubara noted that it was conceived by his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, and remains central to the state’s long-term urban and economic development agenda.
He recalled that the former governor envisioned the completion of the Port Harcourt Ring Road as a landmark achievement that would earn the appreciation of Rivers people. Fubara expressed his determination to realise that vision for the benefit of both present and future generations.
“This project is very important, especially considering the vision of its initiator, the Honourable Minister. He believed that completing it in record time would bring satisfaction to the people,” Fubara said.
“Regardless of current challenges, it is my resolve to ensure that this vision becomes a reality. That shows how important this project is to us and to everyone who wishes our state well.”
The Port Harcourt Ring Road project was flagged off at the start of the Fubara administration, with an initial completion timeline of 36 months.
Upon completion, the road is expected to serve as a major bypass around the state capital, reducing inner-city traffic, improving access to industrial and residential areas, and strengthening the overall transportation network in Rivers State.
