The Niger Delta Development Commission, (NDDC) has handed over relief materials for distribution to flood-imparted communities in Abia State, as part of its efforts to support flood victims in the Niger Delta region.
Speaking during the flag off ceremony at the Abia State Office of the NDDC in Okeikpe, Ukwa West Local Government Area of Abia State, the Commission’s Acting Managing Director, Engr. Emmanuel Audu-Ohwavborua, said the Commission would continue to make a difference in the lives of the people in the region, through the pursuit of critical and relevant interventions in its mandate states.
Audu-Ohwavborua, who was represented by the Director Abia State Office and the in-coming Abia State Representative on the NDDC Board, Mr. Dimgba Eruba, noted that President Buhari and the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Obong Umana Okon Umana, prompted the Commission to respond quickly to the challenges caused by the flood.
He stated, “It is in the spirit and vision of ameliorating the plight of our people, following the ravages of the flood and supporting the good works of the relevant agencies and State Governments in the region in providing some succour to the flood ravaged needy people in the region, that this flag-off Ceremony is being conducted today.
“We are looking forward to re-starting our flagship programme of free medical outreach to various communities in the region as a means of bringing critical life-saving health services nearer to the people in under-served and indigent communities across the region, especially at this time when flooding has disrupted healthcare systems and infrastructure.”
In His remarks the Chairman of Ukwa West local Government Area, Chief Okey Kalu, thanked the NDDC for executing many impactful projects in his council area. This, he said, included the reconstruction of the Obehie-Okeikpe Road.
The Council Chairman, who was represented by his Special Assistant, Chief Leonard Ejiogu, thanked the NDDC for responding to the needs of the people, assuring that the relief materials donated by the Commission would be shared transparently to the affected people.
In his own remarks, the Chairman of Ukwa-West Traditional Rulers Council, Eze Chinyere Dike, expressed appreciation to the NDDC for bringing relief for the flood victims in various communities, noting that the palliatives would go a long way in cushioning the effects of the flood.