By staff Reporter Rukevwe Odeh

The Delta State Government has expressed satisfaction with the progress of construction on the Ayakoromo Bridge across the River Forcados, reaffirming its commitment to ensuring the project is completed by December 2027.

The Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, gave the assurance on Thursday during an inspection of the project alongside engineers from the state Ministry of Works.

Izeze acknowledged the challenges posed by the difficult terrain and weather conditions but commended construction firm Setraco for the progress recorded so far.

He said the ministry’s engineers had confirmed that construction was progressing according to schedule, while the quality of engineering work remained encouraging.

The commissioner, however, urged the contractor to intensify efforts to ensure timely completion without compromising construction standards.

He also commended ministry engineers for maintaining effective supervision during his temporary absence, stressing the importance of continuous monitoring to guarantee quality and adherence to the agreed timeline.

According to him, the bridge is expected to provide significant relief to residents of Egbo-Ide in Ughelli South Local Government Area and Ayakoromo in Burutu Local Government Area.

Speaking during the inspection, Setraco’s Project Manager, Nabil Chahiene, expressed confidence that the bridge would be completed by December 2027.

The Ayakoromo Bridge contract was awarded on December 16, 2022, at a cost of more than ₦39 billion.

The project is designed to establish a vital transportation link between the two communities, which are separated by the River Forcados.

Upon completion, the bridge is expected to ease transportation difficulties, improve the movement of people and goods, boost economic activities and enhance access to essential services for residents of the benefiting communities and neighbouring areas.

The state government has reiterated the need for sustained supervision and adherence to construction standards to ensure the project is delivered within the approved timeframe.

By staff Reporter Rukevwe Odeh

The Tompolo-led PBAT Door-to-Door Movement is set to take its mobilisation campaign for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election to Ekiti State, with a rally scheduled for Thursday, October 29, in Ado-Ekiti.

The programme, billed for the Ekiti Parapo Pavilion, is expected to feature the distribution of campaign vehicles and materials to strengthen grassroots mobilisation ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

The movement is led by its Grand Patron, High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, and is extending its activities to Ekiti following the inauguration of its structures in Plateau State on Wednesday.

The Plateau event, held in Jos, also featured the unveiling of 25 vehicles to support the movement’s outreach activities.

The Ekiti rally forms part of the movement’s ongoing efforts to expand its organisational presence across states and support the campaign for President Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima ahead of the 2027 general election.

Through its door-to-door approach, the movement aims to strengthen its grassroots network and coordinate campaign activities at the community level.

By staff Reporter Rukevwe Odeh

Union Confers ‘Ukodo the Pace Setter’ Title on Governor, Urges Workers to Reciprocate Gesture

The Trade Union Congress (TUC), Delta State Council, has honoured Governor Sheriff Oborevwori with the title “Ukodo the Pace Setter” in recognition of his administration’s decision to institutionalise the payment of 13th-month salaries to public servants.

The union said the initiative would provide additional financial support for workers and their families amid rising living costs and prevailing economic challenges.

In a statement signed by the state chairman, Comrade Wilson Asekutu, the TUC described the legal backing for the additional salary as a demonstration of the government’s recognition of workers’ contributions to the growth and development of Delta State.

According to the labour organisation, the decision reflects the governor’s commitment to policies that deliver tangible benefits to workers and improve their welfare.

The union noted that employees who feel valued and adequately supported are more likely to remain motivated, productive and committed to their responsibilities.

It also reaffirmed its readiness to collaborate with the state government in promoting good governance, sustainable development and improved living conditions for workers and residents.

However, the TUC stressed that its engagement with the government would continue to be guided by mutual respect, constructive engagement and social dialogue.

The labour body urged the Oborevwori administration to sustain consultations with organised labour and implement policies that would strengthen workers’ purchasing power, improve productivity and protect their dignity.

It also called on public servants to reciprocate the government’s gesture through dedication, discipline and improved service delivery.

“Your Excellency, you have taken a bold step in workers’ welfare. You have set a pace. Ukodo the Pace Setter,” Asekutu said on behalf of the union’s leadership and members.

The recognition underscores the TUC’s appreciation of the governor’s decision to provide additional financial benefits to public servants and its call for sustained government-labour cooperation.