Port Harcourt — Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has described the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and former governor of the state, Barrister Nyesom Wike, as a man of “very big ambition,” reaffirming his administration’s commitment to completing the 50.15-kilometre Port Harcourt Ring Road project by October 2026.
Governor Fubara made the remarks on Tuesday during an inspection tour of the Ring Road project, shortly after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu brokered a reconciliation meeting between him and the FCT Minister on Sunday night.
The governor credited Wike with conceiving the ambitious infrastructure project, noting that it was designed to improve the welfare of Rivers people and transform mobility across the state.
“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 stressed that despite recent political tensions, his administration remains fully committed to delivering the project as envisioned.
“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,” the governor added.
Fubara recalled that the Ring Road was originally scheduled for completion within 36 months and noted that progress on the project remains in line with the established timeline.
According to him, the inspection tour was conducted to assess the quality of work and the pace of construction by the contractors. The tour covered sections from Refinery Junction in Eleme, through Iriebe and parts of Obio/Akpor, and ended at the river-crossing bridge connecting key segments of the road.
“From what is visible, a lot has been achieved. From our discussions, the contractors have assured us that the project will be delivered by October,” he stated.
The governor expressed confidence that sustained funding and administrative support would ensure timely completion, assuring residents that his administration would keep its promise to deliver critical infrastructure.
The Port Harcourt Ring Road project, flagged off in July 2023, spans 50.15 kilometres and features five flyovers and a river-crossing bridge. When completed, it is expected to link more than six local government areas and significantly ease traffic congestion in Port Harcourt and surrounding communities.
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