The Delta State Government has expressed satisfaction with the pace and quality of work on the Ayakoromo Bridge across the River Forcados, urging construction giant Setraco to sustain its efforts and ensure the project is completed within the scheduled timeline of December 2027.

The Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, gave the commendation on Thursday during an inspection of the project alongside engineers from the ministry.

Izeze acknowledged the challenges posed by the difficult terrain and weather conditions but said the contractor had made appreciable progress.

He added that the ministry’s engineers had confirmed that work was proceeding in line with the approved schedule.

“Setraco has done appreciably well, considering the weather and the terrain. However, there is still room for improvement. Our engineers have confirmed that work is progressing according to schedule, and the quality of engineering is encouraging,” he said.

The commissioner urged the contractor to intensify its efforts to ensure that residents of Egbo-Ide in Ughelli South Local Government Area and Ayakoromo in Burutu Local Government Area could benefit from the project as soon as possible.

He also commended engineers of the Ministry of Works for maintaining effective supervision throughout his temporary absence, stressing the need for continued monitoring to ensure that construction standards and delivery timelines were not compromised.

“We hope Setraco will maintain the standards it is known for, keep to the agreed timeline and deliver a quality project that will serve the people,” Izeze said.

Speaking during the inspection, Setraco’s Project Manager, Nabil Chahiene, expressed confidence that the bridge would be completed in December 2027.

“By His grace, the project will be completed in 2027,” he said.

Awarded on December 16, 2022, at a contract sum of more than N39 billion, the Ayakoromo Bridge is expected to provide a vital link between Egbo-Ide and Ayakoromo communities, improving movement of people and goods across the River Forcados.

Upon completion, the bridge is expected to ease transportation difficulties, strengthen economic activities and improve access to essential services for residents of the two communities and neighbouring areas.