NDDC vows to complete all ongoing projects in Niger Delta
Barth Ndubuwah, Port Harcourt
The management of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has pledged to complete all ongoing projects, in addition to those already finished and commissioned.
The Managing Director (MD) of NDDC, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, made this announcement during a press briefing in Port Harcourt on Tuesday. He highlighted that while many of the projects were inherited from previous administrations, the Commission under his leadership is committed to seeing them through to completion.
Dr. Ogbuku cited several key projects that have been successfully completed and commissioned, including the Ogbia-Nembe Road with over seven bridges and multiple culverts, the Okrika power plant project, a 6km road with bridges in Akwa Ibom State, and Obehie Road in Abia State.
The MD also mentioned that various projects are underway throughout the Niger Delta region. Some have been completed, while others are still in progress.
He noted the success of the “Light Up the Niger Delta” initiative, which has helped many communities and contributed to a reduction in crime by addressing issues related to inadequate lighting.
Looking forward, Dr. Ogbuku said that the Commission is exploring renewable energy options, particularly solar mini-grids, to address power supply challenges in underserved communities.
He also outlined recent initiatives, including a stakeholders’ summit following youth engagement, with plans to use the summit’s outcomes to inform future actions. Additionally, he introduced the ‘Project Hope’ scheme, designed to identify and nurture the strengths of Niger Delta youths, offering hope and opportunities.
In terms of technology, the MD emphasised a focus on agriculture and the potential for tech-driven solutions. He suggested that the energy currently spent on illegal activities could be redirected towards positive technological advancements.
Regarding education, Dr. Ogbuku reported that the Commission has provided foreign scholarships and has covered all related fees.
In response to the rising costs of foreign education, the NDDC is considering offering local undergraduate scholarships. Additionally, ‘U-lesson tablets’ have been procured for primary and secondary schools to help bridge educational gaps, with a planned launch in October 2024.
Dr. Ogbuku also shared that a recent free medical outreach was successful, leading to plans for holding the event biannually. The Commission has acquired and distributed 30 ambulances to regional hospitals in response to a cholera outbreak and is working to secure cholera vaccines to prevent further incidents.
He also announced that the Commission’s 2024 budget of N1 trillion has been approved and is awaiting the President’s assent. Dr. Ogbuku also assured that internal matters, including staff welfare, have been addressed.
