Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has showered praise on Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Nyesom Wike, describing him as a man of “very big ambition” following a late-night peace meeting brokered by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The governor spoke amid renewed political calm, as he assured Rivers residents that the massive 50.15-kilometre Port Harcourt dual carriage Ring Road project would be completed and delivered by October 2026.
Fubara credited the vision behind the landmark infrastructure to his predecessor, Wike, insisting that the project was designed with the welfare of Rivers people in mind.
The governor made the remarks on Tuesday during an inspection tour of the Ring Road project, barely days after President Tinubu intervened to resolve the political standoff between him and the FCT Minister.
While inspecting the project, Fubara openly acknowledged Wike’s influence, fondly referring to him as his “Oga.”
“For me, this project is very important considering the person who conceived it, my Oga, the Honourable Minister. He had a very big ambition and believed that if this project is delivered within record time, Rivers people will be happy with my administration,” Fubara said.
He made it clear that political differences would not derail his administration’s commitment to completing the project.
“Notwithstanding whatever is happening, it is my wish and responsibility to see that this vision is fulfilled. This explains the importance we attach to the project as a government and as a people,” he stated.
Governor Fubara recalled that the Ring Road was originally designed to be completed within 36 months, noting that work was steadily progressing towards that target.
He said the inspection tour was conducted to evaluate both the quality and speed of construction by the contractor.
According to him, the inspection started from Refinery Junction in Eleme, passed through Iriebe and parts of Obio/Akpor, and ended at the river-crossing bridge connecting key sections of the road.
“From what is visible to everyone, a lot has been achieved. From our discussions, the contractors have assured us that the project will be delivered by October,” he said.
The governor expressed confidence that with steady funding and strong administrative support, the project would be completed as promised.
The Ring Road project, flagged off in July 2023, spans 50.15 kilometres and features five flyovers and a river-crossing bridge.
It is expected to link over six local government areas and significantly ease traffic congestion in Port Harcourt and its surrounding communities.
