Ebikeme Clark, the commissioner for the directorate of riverine infrastructure, says the N80 billion approval for road construction in the creeks and riverine communities will stimulate economic growth.

Mr Clark made the remark in a statement on Monday.

He stated that the approval was made by the State Executive Council in its recent meeting at the Government House, Asaba, presided over by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.

He thanked Mr Oborevwori for the approval and “his sustained commitment to the development of riverine communities in the state through massive infrastructural projects”.

Mr Clark explained that the gesture clearly demonstrated the administration’s determination to open up the coastal areas.

According to him, the projects will significantly improve access, enhance socio-economic activities and transform the economy of the benefiting communities.

The statement listed the projects, including the construction of the Macaulay/Mitubiri Roads in Bomadi, Bomadi LGA; 2.45 kilometres of internal roads in Odimodi; and 3.75 kilometres of internal roads in Ogulagha Communities in Burutu LGA.

Others are internal roads in Patani; the 9.463-kilometre Torugbene–Ojobo Road with a spur to Ojobo Town in Burutu LGA (section two); and the boundary road between Ogbinbri and Ogbudugbudu Communities in Egbema Kingdom, Warri North LGA, amongst others.

The commissioner described the projects as “life-changing interventions” that would improve connectivity, ease transportation challenges and promote commerce in the riverine communities.

He assured the benefitting communities that “the governor remained committed to ensuring balanced development across the state, particularly in historically underserved coastal communities”.

(NAN)