Minister Momoh Promises A New Era Of Development As NDDC Commissions Iko-Atabrikang-Akata-Opolom-Okoroutip-Iwuochang Road

Minister Momoh Promises A New Era Of Development As NDDC Commissions Iko-Atabrikang-Akata-Opolom-Okoroutip-Iwuochang Road

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), an interventionist agency under the Ministry of Niger Delta Development, has recently commissioned the Iko-Atabrikang-Akata-Opolom-Okoroutip-Iwuochang Road (Section 1). The landmark event was graced by the presence of President Bola Tinubu, who was ably represented by the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, accompanied by a distinguished entourage of senators.

In his address, the Minister of Niger Delta Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh, assured Nigerians that the Ministry and the NDDC are poised to deliver one legacy project after another once the 2024 budget is implemented.

He emphasized the commitment to completing all abandoned projects under both the Ministry and the NDDC. The current wave of project commissions, he explained, is a testament to the performance bond signed by the Ministry and the NDDC Board, marking a year of President Tinubu’s administration with significant achievements.

Minister Momoh expressed his profound gratitude to President Tinubu for creating an enabling environment that facilitated the completion of such impactful projects.

The Senate President, in his remarks, extended his appreciation to the President, the Minister of Niger Delta Development, and the NDDC Board for their dedication to completing this substantial project, which had been neglected for many years. He conveyed the President’s appreciation to the NDDC and the Ministry of Niger Delta Development for their relentless efforts.

The Senate President praised the Minister’s successful implementation of a comprehensive roadmap for the Niger Delta. He highlighted initiatives such as empowerment programs, free medical services, road commissioning, healthcare facilities, solar-powered lighting, and more. The Senate President affirmed that these developmental efforts are transforming the region.

Additionally, he committed to securing better funding for the NDDC in the 2025 budget to enhance its effectiveness, while passing a vote of confidence on the Board and Management of the NDDC.

According to the Managing Director of the NDDC, Samuel Ogbuku, Ph.D., the driving force behind the Commission’s efforts is the completion of viable NDDC projects across the nine mandate states of the region. He emphasized that these projects are designed to meet the most compelling needs of the communities in which they are situated, addressing urgent demands for improved infrastructure and services. “After so many years of yearning for a better Niger Delta Region, the people deserve no less,” stated Dr. Ogbuku.

The Iko-Atabrikang-Akata-Opolom-Okoroutip-Iwuochang Road project involves the construction of a 6.7 km two-lane single-carriageway with an asphaltic surface, including a 600-meter span reinforced concrete bridge and side drainage. This bridge will link over 20 communities, facilitating trade and economic activities. The improved infrastructure will allow for the transportation of heavy goods, reducing travel time, boosting productivity, and fostering cultural integration across the region.

Osigwe Omo-Ikirodah is a Special Assistant to the Hon Minster Of Niger Delta Development.