Works minister commends Utomi’s role on Delta road projects

Minister of Power, Works, Power and Housing, Babatunde Raji Fashola (SAN) has commended Prof. Pat Utomi for putting pressure on his ministry for the construction and rehabilitation of several roads in Delta State.

He spoke, when Utomi paid him a courtesy visit to thank him for the recent award of contract for the rehabilitation of the Illah-Asaba road.

Fashola noted that he had promised accelerated work on the Illah-Asaba road, when the political economist and All Progressive Congress (APC) leader called on him several months ago on the matter but some knotty contractual challenges delayed the award of the contract.

The minister however expressed delight that the contractual aspect was now done and work was about to commence.

He further urged Prof. Utomi, who also raised concerns over other roads in the area to extend his community leadership effort by urging those delaying the reconstruction of the Sapele-Agbor Road by encroaching on the road and demanding compensation to have a rethink.

Specifically, Fashola sought Prof. Utomi’s help in urging communities along the Sapele-Agbor project corridor to respect the Federal Government’s right-of-way, which is 47.5 meters on both sides of the road from the median divide, saying this would facilitate speedy completion of the project.

The minister also directed the Acting Director responsible for the project, Charles Okonma, to arrange an inspection visit to the work site with Prof. Utomi.

In his response, Prof. Utomi, who thanked the Minister for giving credence to his requests, informed him that he is already developing capacity with communities in the State for people to cooperate with agencies of government for the advancement of their well being.

He also assured the minister of steady partnership to improve the quality of life of the people .