● Tonye Okurumo
Ajumogobia Flags Off 19.7km Buguma-Abalama-Tema-Degema-Abonnema Road with Seven Bridges
Port Harcourt – Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to equitable development across all sections of the state, as he flagged off the ₦30.4 billion Buguma-Abalama-Tema-Degema-Abonnema Road project. The initiative will link nine Kalabari communities across Asari-Toru, Degema, and Akuku-Toru Local Government Areas.
Speaking at the Tema-Abalama Junction during the groundbreaking ceremony, Governor Fubara emphasized the importance of inclusivity and his administration’s resolve to tackle projects that previous governments avoided. He declared: “It takes one who loves you to do this. This government has committed ₦225 billion to the Trans-Kalabari Road and is now investing another ₦30.4 billion in this road. Our mission is to ensure every section of Rivers State experiences significant development. No amount of social media attacks will change our genuine love for you.”
According to Nelson Chukwudi, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Fubara’s decision to embark on the project was influenced by a request from Kalabari leaders during the inauguration of the Emohua-Tema Junction road six months ago. The Governor noted that the project aligns with his administration’s pro-people policy and added: “We have already paid 30% of the project cost, amounting to ₦9.1 billion, despite financial constraints. This road will transform lives, reduce criminality, and attract further development to Kalabari land.”
The 19.7km road, awarded to Julius Berger Nigeria Limited, will include seven rehabilitated bridges, nearly 13,000 meters of drainage, and high-quality asphalt paving. The project is expected to be completed within 15 months.
A Landmark for the Kalabari People
Performing the flag-off, former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Henry Odein Ajumogobia, SAN, lauded the Governor’s commitment to revitalizing Kalabari communities, which have faced decades of neglect. Ajumogobia remarked: “This project marks the beginning of a renaissance for Kalabari land. Abonnema, once a hub of development and an active seaport, has suffered from generations of neglect. Governor Fubara is restarting the process to restore Kalabari to its rightful place.”
Ajumogobia emphasized that the road would enhance connectivity, reduce urban migration, and foster socio-economic growth in the region.
Voices of Support
Former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Henry Odein Ajumogobia, SAN, flagging-off the reconstruction of the Buguma-Abalama-Tema-Degema-Abonnema Road project at Tema-Abalama Junction in Asari-Toru Local Government Area on Friday.
Renowned environmentalist Dr. Nengi Amakiri commended the project, stating: “This road is not just an infrastructure upgrade; it’s a lifeline for Kalabari people. It will improve access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities while preserving our heritage.”
Similarly, Professor Dakoru Briggs, a development economist, highlighted the transformative potential of the road, noting: “The economic ripple effect of this project will be monumental, from boosting trade to attracting investments. This is a testament to Governor Fubara’s inclusive vision.”
Technical Details and Commitment
Providing insights into the project, Rivers State Commissioner for Works, Barrister Elloka Tasie-Amadi, revealed:
“The road spans 19.7km, linking Buguma, Abalama, Tema, Degema, and Abonnema. Alongside the seven bridges, the project will include extensive soil stabilization, drainage construction, and premium asphalt paving for durability.”
Engr. Peen Lubasch, Managing Director of Julius Berger Nigeria PLC, assured the audience of timely delivery: “We are committed to completing this project within the next six months, adhering to the highest standards of quality.”
Governor Fubara also pledged to address other developmental needs, including healthcare, education, and the reconstruction of the Ifoko-Tema bridge, as requested by King Disrael Gobo Bobmanuel, the Amanyanabo of Abonnema.
“It’s not about temporary solutions; we aim to deliver long-term benefits that empower our communities and create enduring opportunities,” Fubara concluded.
With this transformative initiative, Governor Fubara continues to chart a course for equitable development and progress across Rivers State. GMTNewsng
