Bayelsa Spends N12bn On Access Roads

Soji Ajibola, Yenagoa - 09.02.2008

Bayelsa State government has voted N12bn for the construction of 27 internal roads within Yenagoa metropolis, while it has also paid N3.1 billion as part payment for the opening up of the Bayelsa Central Senatorial district.

Disclosing this to newsmen on Friday, the State Commissioner for Works and Transport, Hon. Frank Opigo, said the construction work had started on the 27 internal roads within the state capital, adding that other roads would soon be included. Hon. Opigo stated that the internal roads project, when completed, aside from opening up the state, would also encourage both the foreign and local investors to invest in the state.

He, therefore, called on the various contractors handling the projects to expedite action. On the possibility of abandonment, the commissioner allayed the fear of the people, saying that various banks that stood as guarantors would be held responsible in a case of abandonment. According to him, the government had adopted a new policy, contrary to what was obtained in the past. Milestone payment had been adopted with banks serving as guarantors.

Hon. Opigo revealed that work had commenced on the multi-billion naira Mariner project, with the government investing N3.4bn as first phase payment. This is just as he disclosed that adequate compensation would be paid to the affected land owners.