Shettima commissions 33.5km Elele-Egbeda-Omoku Road in Rivers
Vice President Shettima Highlights Infrastructure’s Role in Economic Development
RIVERS STATE, Nigeria — Vice President Kashim Shettima emphasized the significance of infrastructure in fostering economic opportunities across Nigeria during the commissioning of the 33.5-kilometer Elele-Egbeda-Omoku dual carriageway on Thursday.
The newly constructed road connects the Ikwerre, Emohua, and Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni Local Government Areas, enhancing access and mobility in the region. In his remarks at the ceremony, Shettima asserted that every infrastructure project serves as a catalyst for opportunity, underscoring the necessity for equitable distribution of these projects nationwide.
“When a road works, society works,” Shettima stated, reiterating the essential role of transportation networks in societal progress. He noted that the completion of this road exemplifies the continuity of government initiatives, with new administrations building upon the projects initiated by their predecessors.
The Vice President conveyed President Bola Tinubu’s satisfaction with the road’s completion and expressed optimism about its contributions to the residents of Rivers State. He commended Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara for utilizing public funds wisely to bring the project to fruition, highlighting the government’s commitment to enhancing the welfare of its citizens.
Governor Fubara, speaking at the event, articulated the importance of the Vice President’s presence, indicating that it reaffirmed Rivers State’s integral role within Nigeria. He expressed emotions during his address, reflecting on past sentiments that the state was marginalized within the national discourse.
Fubara also noted that the newly completed road would bolster security in the area, as its previous poor condition had facilitated criminal activities, including kidnapping and oil theft. He termed the road project “another promise fulfilled” by his administration, emphasizing that overcoming various challenges to deliver impactful initiatives has provided him with a sense of accomplishment.
The Governor asserted that leaving behind visible projects demonstrating his administration’s dedication to the people of Rivers is paramount. He suggested that the completion of the road could positively influence his party’s campaign ahead of the 2027 elections, due to its anticipated benefits for local communities and businesses.
The Elele-Egbeda-Omoku dual carriageway features a 99-meter bridge and is projected to enhance the movement of people, goods, and services among the three local government areas. The project was awarded in March 2024 and was expected to be completed within a 24-month timeframe.
