Vice President Kashim Shettima has described infrastructure development as a critical tool for creating and distributing economic opportunities across the country, saying societies become congested when opportunities are concentrated in only a few areas.
Shettima stated this while commissioning the 33.5-kilometre Elele-Egbeda-Omoku dual carriageway in Rivers State, which connects Ikwerre, Emohua and Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni Local Government Areas.
The road project, awarded in March 2024 with a completion period of 24 months, includes a 99-metre bridge and is expected to improve connectivity, ease transportation and boost economic activities across the benefiting communities.
According to the Vice President, every infrastructure project creates opportunities for citizens, adding that the responsibility of government is to ensure that such opportunities are spread across different parts of the country.
“When a road works, society works,” Shettima said, noting that the completion of the project demonstrates the importance of continuity in governance and building on existing achievements. He said President Bola Tinubu was pleased with the completion of the road and the opportunities it would create for the people of Rivers State.
The Vice President also commended Governor Siminalayi Fubara on behalf of the President for committing public resources to the project, describing the development as consistent with efforts to deploy government funds for the welfare and development of citizens.
Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Fubara said the presence of the Vice President was significant and reaffirmed that Rivers State remained an integral part of Nigeria. He said he was fulfilled by the completion of the project despite the challenges faced by his administration.
Fubara said the road would also improve security in the area, noting that its previously poor condition had made the corridor vulnerable to criminal activities, including kidnapping and oil bunkering.
The governor described the project as another promise fulfilled by his administration, stressing that the most important achievement of any government is the ability to leave behind visible projects that improve the lives of the people.
He added that the impact of the completed road on residents and economic activities would further strengthen his party’s campaign efforts.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Works, Prof. Temple Nwofor, said the project reflects the state government’s commitment to providing durable road infrastructure that connects communities, reduces transportation challenges and supports economic growth.
The Elele-Egbeda-Omoku Road and its 99-metre bridge are expected to enhance the movement of people, goods and services while strengthening economic and social links among the three local government areas.
