President Bola Tinubu has praised the Niger Delta Development Commission for its positive impact on the Niger Delta region.
This commendation came during the inauguration of a 600-meter long bridge in Ibeno, Akwa Ibom, which he attended via representation by Senate President, Sen. Godswill Akpabio.
Tinubu highlighted the significant contributions of the NDDC to the lives of the Niger Delta people, noting the socio-economic benefits the new bridge would bring. The bridge connects 20 communities, enhancing their economic activities, education, and social interactions.
“The current management of NDDC has positively touched the lives of the people of Niger Delta in just one year in office,” he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria reported that the bridge is part of the Iko-Atabrikang-Akata-Opolom-Okoroutip-Iwouchang Road project, completed by the NDDC. Tinubu also commended the commission for constructing the Okiti-Pupa electricity substation, which has linked five local government areas in Ondo State to the national grid.
“This substation is going to serve 64 communities, I can tell you that you have brought hope to the people. Since the year 2000, NDDC has remained focused and committed to the welfare of the people of Niger Delta. Today, you have given the people of Ibeno access to civilisation; these communities can now be accessed with ease,” he said.
Tinubu urged the NDDC to develop programs that would empower the people of the Niger Delta to engage in agriculture, given the region’s favorable environment for farming.
”The region has an environment that is agriculture-friendly, we need to tap into this opportunity,” he said.
Minister of Niger Delta Development, Mr. Abubarkar Momoh, lauded the 600-meter bridge as a product of good planning and dedication, emphasizing its role in connecting previously separated communities and enhancing their social and economic interactions.
“It shows that the ministry and the commission understand the challenges of the people. The communities linked by this bridge were separated; today they can access themselves and relate socially and economically,” he said.
Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom also praised the NDDC for implementing the project, represented by his Deputy, Sen. Akon Ayakenyi. Eno acknowledged the commission’s efforts in improving the quality of life for the Niger Delta people.
Earlier, Dr. Sam Ogbuku, the Managing Director of NDDC, expressed gratitude to the president for his support of the commission.
