Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, on Monday conducted an inspection of the ongoing Trans-Kalabari Road project, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to completing the key infrastructure by 2026.
During the visit, Governor Fubara disclosed that 75 percent of the critical piling work on the 12.5-kilometre road has been completed, describing the progress as satisfactory and a reflection of the contractor’s competence and dedication.
The Trans-Kalabari Road, valued at ₦222.1 billion, was awarded to Lubrik Construction Company in May 2024. When completed, the project will establish a vital link between Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital, and several Kalabari communities, improving access, trade, and transportation across the riverine areas.
Governor Fubara emphasized that the road is a major component of his administration’s development blueprint, aimed at opening up rural communities and boosting economic activities in the state’s coastal regions. He noted that the Kalabari axis, known for its rich cultural heritage and economic potential, had suffered years of neglect due to poor infrastructure and limited connectivity.
According to him, the Trans-Kalabari Road represents not just a construction project, but a commitment to inclusivity, equity, and balanced development across the state. He assured residents that his government remains determined to deliver the project within the stipulated timeframe and in accordance with international construction standards.
“This road is one of the most important projects in our state. It connects our people, it drives commerce, and it will bring development to the Kalabari region,” Fubara stated. “We are happy with the pace of work and confident that by 2026, this project will be delivered for the benefit of our people.”
The governor praised the technical quality of the ongoing piling works, noting that the difficult riverine terrain posed significant engineering challenges. Despite these challenges, he said the progress made so far demonstrates the state’s commitment to overcoming infrastructural barriers that have historically hindered development in riverine areas.
He also reiterated his administration’s focus on delivering people-oriented projects across all senatorial districts, stressing that his government will not abandon any project once initiated. “Our approach is simple — if we start it, we will finish it. The Trans-Kalabari Road is a promise to our people, and we intend to keep that promise,” he said.
Officials from the Ministry of Works and representatives of Lubrik Construction, who accompanied the governor during the inspection, confirmed that the project remains on schedule. They assured that with the completion of the piling stage, major structural and road works would accelerate in the coming months.
Residents and community leaders from the Kalabari area expressed optimism that the project would significantly transform their local economy and ease the movement of goods and people. Many described the project as a long-awaited lifeline that would connect the Kalabari kingdoms more effectively with Port Harcourt and the rest of the state.
The Trans-Kalabari Road, once completed, is expected to reduce travel time between the Kalabari communities and Port Harcourt, boost tourism, and enhance access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and commerce.
Governor Fubara concluded his inspection by reaffirming that his administration will continue to prioritize infrastructural development, particularly in underserved and hard-to-reach areas, as part of efforts to create a more inclusive and prosperous Rivers State.
