The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), an interventionist agency tasked with fostering sustainable development in the Niger Delta region, recently unveiled a series of completed projects in Okirika Local Government Area, Rivers State. These projects underscore the NDDC’s commitment to complementing the efforts of other tiers of government and delivering tangible results in line with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. The unveiled projects included a modern police station equipped with essential facilities, a well-equipped health center to address the healthcare needs of the community, a recreation center to foster social interaction and leisure activities, and a crucial 4.5km road network linking Egbelebie to other areas. These developments are testaments to the NDDC’s proactive approach to community development and its focus on enhancing the well-being of residents in the Niger Delta.
The Chairman of the NDDC Governing Board, Mr. Chiedu Ebie, emphasized the collaborative nature of the commission’s work, stressing that it does not compete with but rather complements the efforts of local, state, and federal governments. He reiterated that the NDDC is not a tier of government itself but operates as an interventionist agency working in synergy with other governmental bodies to achieve common development goals. Ebie underscored the importance of community ownership and maintenance of the projects, urging residents to take responsibility for the long-term sustainability of these developments. He called for collective efforts to ensure the projects continue to serve the community effectively.
The NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, highlighted the alignment of the commission’s project delivery with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He described the project commissioning as a tangible manifestation of this agenda, showcasing the commitment to bringing positive change to the Niger Delta region. Ogbuku noted the NDDC’s ongoing efforts to complete various projects across the region, emphasizing the importance of peace and stability in creating a conducive environment for development. He specifically mentioned the Okrika-Borokiri Road and bridges, assuring their timely completion. Ogbuku also acknowledged the crucial support of the National Assembly and security agencies in facilitating the NDDC’s project delivery, emphasizing the importance of collaborative partnerships in achieving developmental goals.
The recent project commissioning in Okirika is part of a broader initiative by the NDDC, with similar events held in several other states across the Niger Delta, including Ondo, Edo, Delta, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Imo, and Cross River. This widespread approach demonstrates the NDDC’s commitment to reaching various communities within the region and addressing their unique developmental needs. The commissioning of these projects signifies not only the completion of infrastructure but also the fulfillment of promises made to the communities. It marks a step forward in the ongoing journey towards sustainable development in the Niger Delta.
The NDDC Executive Director of Finance and Administration, Boma Iyaye, echoed the sentiment of community satisfaction and reassured residents of the board’s commitment to completing the crucial Borokiri-Okrika bridge, which will enhance connectivity and accessibility for the community. This bridge project is seen as pivotal in further integrating Okrika with Port Harcourt and fostering economic opportunities. The Executive Director of Projects, Victor Antai, provided detailed information about the completed projects, highlighting the specifications of the police station and the extensive road network. He praised the cooperation of the Okrika residents, describing them as peaceful and supportive, which facilitated the smooth execution of the projects.
The positive reception of the projects within the community was evident in the remarks of Chief Believe Abam, a community representative, who expressed gratitude to the NDDC for its developmental efforts. He commended the leadership of the NDDC Board and Management and appealed for more projects to further address the needs of the area. This positive feedback reinforces the importance of community engagement and the NDDC’s focus on delivering projects that have a direct impact on the lives of the people. The completion of these projects marks a significant milestone in the ongoing development efforts in the Niger Delta, demonstrating the commitment of the NDDC to improving the lives of the people through strategic interventions.
