By ebosele@hotmail.com. –
The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has reaffirmed its commitment to completing the sand-filling and reclamation project in Okochiri, Okrika Local Government Area, as well as the 4.5-kilometre Nonwa–Uedeme–Ogu Road linking Tai and Ogu-Bolo Local Government Areas of Rivers State.
The NDDC Executive Director, Finance and Administration, Alabo Boma Iyaye, made this known during an inspection tour of the ongoing projects, stressing the Commission’s resolve to ensure that all projects across the Niger Delta are completed and inaugurated for the benefit of host communities.
Iyaye expressed satisfaction with the level of work at the Okochiri reclamation site, noting that the project had significantly increased available land for economic activities in the area.
“We are here in Okochiri to monitor and appraise the performance of the contractor working for us. We felt the need to assess the project’s progress to ensure timely completion,” he said.
He described the reclamation project as highly beneficial to the Okochiri people, adding that the increased landmass had helped to boost the annual Okochiri International Beach Festival and Carnival, which he said promotes peace and unity among residents.
Earlier, during a courtesy visit to the Amayanabo of Okochiri, King Ateke Tom, at his palace, Iyaye assured the monarch of the Commission’s respect for traditional institutions and their critical role in community development. He explained that the visit was part of efforts to ensure the timely completion of NDDC projects in the area.
“For us to succeed, we believe that we need the cooperation of everybody. We need the cooperation of the traditional institutions, the state governments and the youth,” Iyaye stated.
In his response, King Ateke Tom commended the NDDC for executing impactful projects in Okochiri, particularly the sand-filling and reclamation works, noting that the initiatives would further enhance the economic development of the kingdom.
Briefing the NDDC team on the reclamation project, the contractor, Dr Jude Moroh, lauded the Commission for embarking on the project, explaining that the area, which was previously a mangrove swamp, had now been successfully sand-filled.
Also speaking at the site, the Secretary of the Ijaw Youth Council, Eastern Zone, Mr Tamunokuro Dango, expressed satisfaction with the progress of work, saying the project had improved economic and social activities in the community.
“We are delighted because this project has enhanced our economic and social activities, improving the lives of our people,” he said.
During the inspection of the Nonwa–Uedeme–Ogu Road, Iyaye assured residents that the NDDC, under the leadership of the Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, was committed to implementing the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
He emphasized that the Commission would continue to collaborate with state governments to leave lasting developmental footprints in communities across its mandate states.
The road project contractor, Hon. Deinma Iyalla, affirmed that the NDDC had transformed the area by linking several communities through improved road infrastructure, assuring that the first phase of the project would be completed by the end of January.
Iyaye also inspected ongoing construction work on the 1,500-seater Ogu Civic Centre and the Ogu Community Pavilion in Ogu-Bolo Local Government Area of Rivers State.
Seledi Thompson-Wakama
Director, Corporate Affairs
