Rivers govt, Julius Berger sign N200bn contract for Port Harcourt Ring Road

Rivers govt, Julius Berger sign N200bn contract for Port Harcourt Ring Road

The Rivers State Government and Julius Berger Nigeria Plc signed a contract on Wednesday for the construction of the proposed Port Harcourt Ring Road, estimated to cost the state N200 billion.

The signing ceremony was attended by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Prof. Zacheaus Adangor, Commissioner for Works, Dr George Kelly Dakorinama Alabo, and the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Works, Mrs Ebere Dennis Emenike.

They signed on behalf of the State Government, while the Managing Director, Dr Lars Ritcher and Raymond Marisho, Assistant Regional Manager, signed for Julius Berger Nigeria Plc.

After signing the contract, State Governor Sir Siminalayi Fubara expressed the urgency of his administration to develop new cities and stated that the construction of the Port Harcourt Ring Road would facilitate the achievement of that objective by providing enduring quality infrastructure for the people.

Governor Fubara emphasized the importance of starting the project now, as it has a completion period of 36 months and will span six local government areas. He announced that 75 per cent of the contract sum of N195.3 billion has already been released to Julius Berger to ensure the project progresses with the required urgency.

The Governor called on traditional rulers and youths to take ownership of the project and not disrupt its progress, as anyone found disrupting the project may face suspension or prosecution. He stressed the need for necessary support, acknowledging that there may be some inconveniences initially but emphasizing the long-term benefits for all.

Governor Fubara assured that while the Port Harcourt Ring Road project is underway, his administration will continue to prioritize other critical sectors, such as the health sector, by providing facilities, infrastructure, and support to deliver the best services to the people of Rivers State.

Managing Director of Julius Berger Nigeria PLC, Dr Lars Ritcher, acknowledged the company’s participation in the infrastructural transformation of the previous administration and pledged not to compromise on quality and timeliness in delivering the project, expressing gratitude for the sustained confidence placed in them.