The Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC is set to commission 92 infrastructure projects valued at over N84 billion across five states in the Niger Delta region within the next two weeks.
This announcement was made in a statement by the Director of Corporate Affairs, NDDC, Mr. Pius Ughakpoteni, in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital, on Sunday.
The statement reads, “With a forward-looking, innovative and result-oriented roadmap, the commission is well-equipped towards ensuring a holistic and sustainable development of the Niger Delta into a region that is economically prosperous, socially stable, ecologically regenerative and politically peaceful,” adding that the NDDC’s management “would explore means of reducing recurrent expenditure, while focusing on completing capital projects.
“And in the light of the above, NDDC, will in the next two weeks, commission 92 infrastructure projects executed at a cost of N84 billion across the nine mandate states in the region.”
According to the statement, the projects include the 25.7 km Ogbia-Nembe Road which creates a road link to the ancient city of Nembe.
“This project, along with 9.15 km of pre-fabricated vertical drains on the swamp and seven bridges, was executed at a cost of N24 billion. These developments have reduced the travel time to Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital, from three hours on dangerous water routes to 45 minutes, and opened up 14 communities for development.
“Additionally, the NDDC will commission the 132KV Transmission Line and 132KV/33KV sub-station electrification project in the southern part of Ondo State, executed at a cost of N8.3 billion.
“This project includes the construction of 45km double circuit 33KV feeder lines from Omotosho Power Station to Okitipupa, two 30MVA, 132/33KV injection substations, and a 3-bedroom semi-detached bungalow as service quarters.
“The project also encompasses the provision of 2 x 60MVA, 132/33KV transformers, rehabilitation of 35km 33/11KV transmission lines from Okitipupa-Igbokoda-Ugbonla, and the construction of a 1km rigid pavement. “
This initiative aims to enhance power supply to Okitipupa, Igbokoda, and surrounding communities, boosting local industries and job creation.
In Akwa Ibom State, the NDDC will commission the 6.87 km Iko-Iwuochang road in the Akwa Ibom South (Eket) Senatorial District. In Abia State, the commission will unveil the Obehie to Oke Ikpe road, reconstructed at a cost of N3.5 billion.
Other projects to be commissioned include additional roads, electrification initiatives, a police station, health centers, and school blocks.