Julius Berger Nigeria Plc has delivered a major transport infrastructure project in Rivers State with the completion of the 19.79-kilometre Buguma-Abalama-Tema-Degema-Abonnema Road and the rehabilitation of seven bridges along the corridor.

The project, which traverses Asari-Toru, Degema and Akuku-Toru Local Government Areas, was commissioned on Monday amid celebrations by residents, traditional rulers, community leaders, government officials and other stakeholders.

Beyond providing a new transportation link, the project is expected to improve connectivity among the benefiting communities, reduce travel time, enhance road safety and create better access to businesses, properties and economic opportunities.

The commissioning ceremony, held in the presence of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, also provided an opportunity for Julius Berger to reaffirm its commitment to delivering infrastructure built to enduring quality standards.

Speaking at the event, the Director, Administration of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Dr. Abdulazziz Kaita, described the project as a significant contribution to the Rivers State Government’s infrastructure development agenda.

According to him, the successful delivery of the road demonstrated the company’s professionalism, technical capacity and commitment to infrastructure development in the state.

“This project represents a significant contribution to the Rivers State Government’s infrastructure development agenda and will greatly enhance accessibility and connectivity among communities within the three local government areas,” Kaita said.

He noted that the project was completed despite the exceptional circumstances surrounding the six-month period of Emergency Rule in Rivers State.

Kaita said Julius Berger remained committed to applying high engineering standards and deploying the technical expertise and resources required to deliver projects that provide lasting value to communities.

“We are confident that this road will enhance connectivity among the beneficiary communities, improve accessibility, stimulate economic activities and contribute positively to the overall development of Rivers State,” he said.

Governor Fubara, in his remarks, commended Julius Berger for executing the project to the required standards, while also appreciating the host communities for their cooperation during construction.

The governor described the road as a critical gateway for Abalama and neighbouring communities, noting that improved access would allow goods and services to move more freely while creating an environment where businesses could thrive.

“This road is a critical gateway for the Abalama people and neighbouring communities. In the past, several challenges existed along this corridor, but today those concerns are being addressed,” Fubara said.

He added that the project would enable residents to pursue opportunities capable of improving their livelihoods. The governor also acknowledged the role played by the benefiting communities in ensuring that construction proceeded successfully.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Works, Engr. Prof. Temple Nwofor, provided details of the infrastructure delivered, stating that the project included the 19.79-kilometre roadway, drainage infrastructure, culverts, street lighting, walkways and other ancillary works.

He said seven existing bridges along the corridor were also rehabilitated as part of the project.

“The project has been delivered in full compliance with all specified standards and engineering requirements. We are pleased that this vital infrastructure is now ready to serve the people and support the continued development of the area,” Nwofor said.

For communities along the corridor, the significance of the project was reflected in the turnout at the commissioning, as residents lined the route, waving flags and participating in cultural displays.

The celebration brought together traditional rulers, community leaders and residents who witnessed the formal opening of the road and the infrastructure that is expected to strengthen links between communities previously affected by transportation challenges.

With 19.79 kilometres of roadway and seven rehabilitated bridges now delivered, the Buguma-Abalama-Tema-Degema-Abonnema corridor represents a significant addition to the transport infrastructure connecting communities in the three local government areas.

For Julius Berger, the project also reinforces its stated commitment to engineering quality and sustainable infrastructure, while for the benefiting communities, the completed corridor offers a new route for movement, trade and access to economic opportunities.