WARRI – THE Governor of Delta State, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has been commended for paying N8 billion out of the N9billion
owed to Setraco Construction Company handling the Trans-Warri Ode-Itsekiri bridges and access road project to enable continuous work on the road.
Olu of Warri, His Majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse III gave the commendation when he inspected the project to access the level of work done on the N40,8 billion contract awarded since 22nd August 2006 and commenced on 20th November 2007.
The job which included a total of 19 bridges covers a 26km length of roads, spurs, culvert, drains, two jetties and Ode-Itsekiri internal roads was stalled and re-appraisal of the entire project was done before work commenced again.
Ogiame Atuwatse after inspecting the project expressed satisfaction with the job done so far. He commended the state government, the contractor and the host communities who have supported the contractor.
“I want to thank the Governor for his kind disposition towards us, we all know the existing economic situation. For the Governor to pay N8bilion out of the money owed is commendable.” His Majesty said
The Olu of Warri walked the 159 metres length linking Orugbo community while also taking time time to receive greetings and cheers from gorgeously dressed community members who rolled out drums and danced joyously to receive the revered monarch
His Majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse III enjoined the communities to continue to support the contractor by providing a peaceful environment as they had always done.
Chief Adams Otimeyin, Special Project Director, Trans-Warri Ode-Itsekiri Bridges and Access Roads thanked the Olu of Warri for exhibiting uncommon leadership by visiting the site to ascertain the work done.
Otimeyin also thanked Okowa for Keeping to his promise and paying the huge backlog owed the contractor. He said that the total percentage of work done is about 73,7% with 10 of the 19 bridges completed, 4 bridges completed up to deck slab.
The Special Project Director further explained that in other to keep the Warri River open to vessels in line with international Waterway policies, the Federal Ministry of Transport requested that the initial 7pm navigational bridge should be replaced with a cable stayed bridge of 2.5km long.
Otimeyin revealed that with the huge estimated cost associated with the proposed cable stayed bridge which is yet to be awarded, ferries were proposed as a temporary means of conveying vehicles and goods across the Warri River pending when the cable stayed will come alive.
On his part, Engr. Jose Cosme, Area Manager Setraco thanked the Olu of Warri and promised that with adequate funding the project will be completed before his first coronation anniversary.
Cosme commended the host communities for creating a peaceful atmosphere which enabled them to work without hindrances.
