Renewed Hope Is Here : Wild Jubilation As Tinubu Commissions OGBIA-NEMBE ROAD AND BRIDGE PROJECT

Wild Jubilation as Tinubu Commissions OGBIA-NEMBE ROAD AND BRIDGE PROJECT

In a momentous event marked by celebration and hope, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by Engr. Abubakar Momoh FNSE, the Honourable Minister of Niger Delta Development, officially commissioned the Ogbia-Nembe Road and Bridge Project on Saturday, May 26, 2024. This landmark project, located in Bayelsa State, is poised to significantly enhance the infrastructure, economic vitality, and overall quality of life for residents of the Niger Delta region.

Addressing a jubilant crowd, Minister Momoh highlighted the significance of the project, emphasizing its role in alleviating the long-standing hardships faced by the people of Ogbia and Nembe. Before its construction, the road was nearly impassable, hampering the free movement of goods and services and affecting the daily lives of residents. “This project demonstrates part of the continued efforts of the Federal Government to ensure sustainable development, peace, and security in the Niger Delta Region,” Minister Momoh stated. He further acknowledged the critical role played by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) in facilitating this infrastructure development.

President Tinubu’s administration has prioritized infrastructure development as a cornerstone for economic growth. The commissioning of the 25.735 km Ogbia-Emakalakala-Akipelai-Etiama-Nembe road, including seven bridges, is a testament to this commitment. The road connects 14 communities, enhancing connectivity and fostering economic activities in the region. “The present administration is passionate about increasing the infrastructural stocks of the country,” Minister Momoh asserted. “This will undeniably stimulate job creation, ensure food security, end poverty, and enhance socio-economic development.”

The Ogbia-Nembe Road and Bridge Project is expected to reduce travel time, minimize traffic congestion, and decrease the risk of accidents, thereby improving the quality of life for the residents. The project also aims to mitigate security challenges, such as kidnapping and other anti-social vices, which were prevalent due to the deplorable state of the road. He urged the local communities to ensure the maintenance of the newly constructed road to maximize its benefits for years to come.

Minister Momoh congratulated the NDDC for its pivotal role in the project’s completion and called for continued support from the local communities. He also recognized Shell Development Company for its essential partnership in this joint venture. “This project is a clear example of what good partnerships can achieve. I call on other international oil companies (IOCs) to follow suit. Chevron, for instance, has undertaken similar projects in the region, and I urge them to complement the NDDC’s efforts so that we can witness more success stories like this.”

“The National Assembly must be commended for their support in facilitating this project in partnership with Shell,” Minister Momoh continued. He noted that removing the NDDC from the single treasury account has been addressed, and President Tinubu has directed the NDDC to capture all legacy projects in the nine states of the region. “In the 2024 budget, a special arrangement will be put in place to execute these projects.”

The commissioning ceremony also featured remarks from various dignitaries who underscored the broader impact of the project and the need for sustained development efforts in the Niger Delta. The Chairman of the NDDC Governing Board, Mr. Chiedu Ebie, noted the project’s potential for fostering collaboration with international oil companies (IOCs) like Shell, which partnered with the NDDC in this endeavor.

Senator Ekpenyong Asuquo, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Niger Delta, emphasized the need for continuity in administration to achieve sustained development, citing Lagos State as an exemplary model. He encouraged ongoing partnerships between the NDDC and IOCs to further develop the region.

The Governor of Bayelsa State, represented by Deputy Governor Senator Lawrence Erujakpo, highlighted the challenges overcome to complete the project, including issues related to compensation, insecurity, and funding. He expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts that made the project possible and called for more such partnerships in the future. “The Bayelsa State government donated N3 billion for this project, which was instrumental in its continuation and completion. I want to thank the Nembe and other communities for their cooperation. I thank Shell, NDDC, and others. We are open to more collaborations with the NDDC for future projects.”

The commissioning of the Ogbia-Nembe Road and Bridge Project marks a significant milestone in the development of the Niger Delta region. It stands as a testament to the Federal Government’s commitment to improving infrastructure and fostering economic growth. As the region celebrates this achievement, there is renewed hope for continued progress and prosperity through sustained collaboration and support from all stakeholders.

Engr. Abubakar Momoh concluded the ceremony with a heartfelt dedication: “It is my honor and singular privilege to commission this project to the glory of God and to the benefit and use of mankind. Thank you for listening, and God bless.”

Osigwe Omo-Ikirodah serves as a Special Assistant to the Hon Minister of Niger Delta Development.