NDDC, NLNG Collaborate To Fast-Track Completion Of 27.1km Bonny Ring Road

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has joined forces with Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas Limited (NLNG) to accelerate the completion of the 27.1-kilometre Bonny Ring Road and its bridges in Bonny Local Government Area of Rivers State.

During an inspection tour of the project, NDDC’s Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to delivering the road project and other initiatives, emphasizing that it was a direct mandate from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Accompanied by the Executive Director Projects, Sir Victor Antai, and other directors, Ogbuku also visited the Amanyanabo and Natural Ruler of Bonny Kingdom, King Edward Asimini William Dappa Pepple III, at his palace.

According to a statement from NDDC’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Seledi Thompson-Wakama, the team also sought the monarch’s blessings ahead of the Commission’s 25th anniversary celebration, which would commence with a thanksgiving service in Ondo State on July 6.

Ogbuku highlighted the pivotal role played by the late Harold Dappa-Biriye in championing the Niger Delta cause, noting that the NDDC headquarters in Port Harcourt would be named in his honour.

He stressed that the Commission remains devoted to implementing the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda in the Niger Delta, adding that most projects were identified through a thorough needs assessment.

“We are dedicated to the mandate given by President Tinubu to transform the Niger Delta. We have also engaged international oil and gas firms to attract partnerships for large-scale projects,” he said.

Ogbuku revealed that beyond the Bonny Ring Road, the Commission was collaborating with NLNG on the Kaa-Ataba and Okrika-Borokiri bridges, emphasizing that the goal was to complement state government efforts rather than compete.

He pointed out that the Bonny Ring Road, which features 13 bridges and 26 kilometres of concrete pavement, was designed to stimulate economic growth and reduce poverty in the host and neighbouring communities.

The Managing Director of the construction firm handling the project, Engr. Dennis Ododah, assured that the road would be completed by the first quarter of 2027.

Despite heavy rainfall, Ogbuku toured the site with Bonny chiefs, stating that the project would enhance connectivity between Bonny Town and surrounding communities, complementing the ongoing Bonny-Bodo Road being built by the Federal Government.

Earlier, during the courtesy call, King Edward, represented by Alabo Dagogo Claude-Wilcox, commended the NDDC for its efforts but urged strict oversight to prevent project delays.