The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has reaffirmed its commitment to expeditiously completing the Gbaregolor-Ogulaha Road project Phase I, a crucial infrastructure development initiative located in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State. This 24-kilometer road project, featuring a substantial 576-meter bridge, represents a significant investment of billions of naira and holds the promise of transforming the socio-economic landscape of the region. NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, emphasized the commission’s dedication to this project during a recent assessment tour, underscoring its importance as a catalyst for poverty reduction, improved security, and enhanced infrastructural development. The project, upon completion, will connect ten communities across Bomadi, Ughelli South, and Burutu Local Government Areas, fostering greater connectivity and facilitating economic growth.
Dr. Ogbuku’s visit, accompanied by key stakeholders including the NDDC Governing Board Chairman, Mr. Chiedu Ebie, the Executive Director, Project, Mr. Victor Antai, and members of the House of Representatives Committee on the NDDC, served to underscore the collaborative approach being adopted to ensure the project’s successful completion. The presence of these officials demonstrated the shared commitment and high priority attached to this vital infrastructure project. The on-site assessment allowed for a firsthand evaluation of the progress made and the challenges that need to be addressed. This direct engagement with the project’s realities is crucial for informed decision-making and effective problem-solving.
The Gbaregolor-Ogulaha Road project has been identified as a legacy project within the NDDC’s 2024 budget, receiving specific funding approval from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. This presidential endorsement highlights the project’s national significance and reinforces the government’s commitment to developing the Niger Delta region. The allocation of funds specifically for legacy projects signifies a strategic focus on completing long-standing initiatives that have the potential to deliver substantial benefits to the communities they serve. This approach aims to maximize the impact of investments and ensure that projects reach fruition, translating into tangible improvements in people’s lives.
Addressing concerns that had arisen regarding the bridge’s design and proposed variations by the contractor, Dr. Ogbuku announced that these issues had been successfully resolved during a meeting with the construction company’s chairman. This resolution underscores the NDDC’s proactive approach to addressing potential roadblocks and its commitment to transparent communication with stakeholders. The willingness to engage in dialogue and find mutually acceptable solutions demonstrates a commitment to efficient project management and a focus on delivering the intended benefits to the community.
Engr. Nicholas Masoliba, a representative of the contracting firm, provided further details about the project’s progress, revealing that 70% of the work had been completed since its commencement in 2009. This substantial progress despite the project’s long duration highlights the ongoing efforts and investment that have been made. Masoliba also explained the need for design adjustments, primarily due to the impact of erosion, necessitating an extension of the bridge. This adaptation to unforeseen challenges demonstrates a commitment to building resilient infrastructure that can withstand environmental factors.
The Gbaregolor-Ogulaha Road project stands as a testament to the NDDC’s commitment to transforming the Niger Delta region through strategic infrastructure development. By connecting communities, fostering economic growth, and improving security, this project embodies the potential of infrastructure to positively impact lives and create a more prosperous future for the region. The project’s progress and the dedication of stakeholders involved underscore the shared vision of a developed and thriving Niger Delta. Furthermore, the project showcases the importance of adapting to challenges and engaging in constructive dialogue to ensure the successful completion of projects that hold significant promise for the community.
