The Delta State Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, has reiterated the unwavering commitment of Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori to the timely completion of the ongoing multi-billion-naira Asaba flood control and erosion management project, assuring residents that the intervention is progressing steadily and will be delivered before the peak of the rainy season.
Comrade Izeze gave the assurance while leading an inspection tour of key project sites across the Asaba metropolis. He stated that the project, which targets major flood-prone corridors within the state capital, has recorded significant progress and remains firmly on schedule.
The extensive project corridor spans critical areas including the Shoprite axis, Inter-Bua Roundabout, Izuka Okolo Street, Egagifo Street, DBS Road, St. Patrick’s College across Nnebisi Road, and extends through Nkemakonam Ijeh Close to its final discharge point at the Amilimocha River. The intervention is designed to effectively channel stormwater away from communities that have endured persistent flooding and erosion for several decades.
According to the commissioner, Governor Oborevwori has demonstrated uncommon courage and resolve by directly confronting long-standing environmental challenges in Asaba, dispelling early speculations that the state capital would be neglected under his administration.
“There were naysayers who believed that once he became governor, Asaba would be abandoned. But the Governor made a clear promise to Deltans that he would do more, and one of his firm commitments was to complete all inherited projects,” Izeze said.
He described the flood control project as critical to the wellbeing of Asaba residents, stressing that it finally addresses the perennial stormwater challenge around the Shoprite axis, an issue that has lingered for over 20 years.
“This project is extremely important to the people of Asaba because it tackles the stormwater problem around the Shoprite area, where residents have complained for more than two decades,” he added.
Comrade Izeze explained that the drainage infrastructure is engineered to collect stormwater from multiple catchment areas, including the Shoprite corridor and surrounding neighbourhoods, convey it past St. Patrick’s College, and safely discharge it into the Amilimocha River. He noted that special engineering safeguards were incorporated at the discharge point to protect the environment and prevent erosion.
The commissioner disclosed that the project, which was awarded between May and June last year, has attained about 72 per cent completion, describing the progress as “reasonable and appreciable.” He expressed confidence that contractors would intensify work to ensure completion ahead of the peak rainfall period.
“We have reviewed some grey areas, particularly the catchment pit near the Inter-Bua Roundabout and the discharge strategy. The consultants have clarified the use of wing walls and buffer structures to reduce flow velocity and prevent environmental damage,” he said.
“We have also directed the contractors to strictly adhere to the approved design. They have a contract and must comply with the terms they willingly agreed to,” Izeze added.
He further explained that officials of the ministry, consultants, and contractors were all on site during the inspection to ensure effective supervision, coordination, and compliance with specifications. He stressed that the Oborevwori administration remains committed to equitable development across all parts of Delta State, without neglect or project abandonment.
Also speaking during the inspection, the Director of Urban Roads in the Ministry, Engr. Victor Oputa, provided technical details of the project, which is being executed by CCECC. He explained that the works comprise both underground sewers and surface drainage systems along Summit Road and adjoining areas.
“The underground sewer is designed to collect stormwater from adjoining streets along Summit Road, through St. Patrick’s College and across Nnebisi Road, down to Amilimocha. The underground component has been completed, and most of the surface drains are also finished. What remains are mainly finishing works,” Engr. Oputa said.
He noted that Asaba’s low-lying terrain makes it particularly susceptible to flooding, especially when heavy rainfall occurs in upland neighbouring communities such as Okpanam, from where runoff naturally flows into the state capital. According to him, the current project complements earlier drainage interventions by previous administrations and effectively closes critical gaps in the existing network.
“This project will eliminate ponding in front of Shoprite, FSP School, Egagifo Road, Eru Club Road, and other adjoining streets. It will also connect areas such as Jesus Saves, DLA, and surrounding roads to the main drain,” he said.
Engr. Oputa expressed confidence that, with the project now at about 72 per cent completion, the remaining works would be concluded before the rainy season fully sets in, leaving only minor finishing touches.
On completion, the project is expected to significantly reduce flooding and erosion in Asaba and its environs, offering long-awaited relief to residents and reinforcing the Oborevwori administration’s commitment to sustainable urban infrastructure and environmental management.
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