Just over three years ago, travelling from Asaba to Warri through Ughelli on the Asaba–Ughelli Expressway was a stressful journey that could take three to four hours due to persistent traffic congestion, especially around Otovwodo Junction. The 148-kilometre road project, initiated in 2007 under former Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan and continued by Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, was only about 33% completed when Governor Sheriff Oborevwori assumed office on May 29, 2023.
Since taking over, Governor Oborevwori’s administration has prioritised the completion of inherited infrastructure projects. Contractors were mobilised back to site, and within a little over two years, the Asaba–Ughelli road was completed, significantly improving travel time across the corridor. The journey between Asaba and Ughelli now takes about 90 minutes or less, with further reductions expected once the Otovwodo Junction Flyover is completed.
Across Delta State, similar infrastructure progress has been recorded. Key projects such as the Trans Warri–Ode Itsekiri Bridges and Access Roads—comprising 15 bridges and connecting several riverine communities—are nearing completion. The project, originally awarded in 2006 and revised under successive administrations, was revived after the Oborevwori government cleared outstanding contractor liabilities and injected additional funding to ensure completion.
The administration has also embarked on other major infrastructure projects, including flyovers at critical traffic points such as Warri–Effurun, Otovwodo Junction, and Uromi Junction. These projects are aimed at easing long-standing traffic congestion, improving road safety, and boosting economic activity across the state.
Beyond infrastructure, the government highlights achievements in social welfare and human capital development. Through the Delta Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus (D-CARES) programme, beneficiary coverage reportedly increased from 31,130 to over 307,000 people. The initiative provides cash transfers, job opportunities for youths, support for small businesses, agricultural inputs, and livelihood grants for vulnerable residents.
In the health sector, the state’s health insurance scheme has grown significantly, with over three million enrollees, alongside upgrades to several health facilities with modern equipment and infrastructure.
Supporters of the administration argue that these projects are addressing long-standing infrastructural and social challenges rather than serving political interests. They maintain that the governor’s focus has been on delivering practical development outcomes, particularly in transportation, health, and social welfare.
Governor Oborevwori is also described as enforcing accountability in governance, particularly in contract execution, with emphasis on performance and project delivery across all sectors.
The article concludes that the administration’s approach combines infrastructure renewal with social intervention programmes aimed at improving living standards across Delta State.
