NDDC Resumes Construction Of Kaa-Ataba Bridge

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has resumed construction of the Kaa-Ataba Road and bridges to connect Rivers State’s Khana and Andoni Local Government Areas.

Engr. Lawrence Ekanem, the Project Supervisor at the bridge site, described the multibillion-naira project as ambitious and impactful.

He stated that the road and bridges would boost socioeconomic activity in Kaa, Ataba, and the surrounding communities.

According to Seledi Thompson-Wakama, Director of Corporate Affairs, Ekanem assured his company that he would do everything possible to ensure the project’s timely completion.

He stated, “We are committed to delivering on time and quality.”

Mr. Backpo Godspower, the project’s Community Liaison Officer, praised the NDDC for its intervention and urged for its prompt completion, which began in 2009.

He added, “The NDDC has done well in resuming work on the bridge, but we want them to finish it so that the connection between the communities separated by the river is seamless.

“If the bridge is completed, it will boost socioeconomic activity in the area.”
According to Godspower, the project aims to improve community relations, reduce river crossing accidents, and boost socio-economic activities.

He stated: “The 2-kilometer double lane single carriageway with two bridges will improve the quality of life for the people of Kaa and Ataba, as well as aid in the transportation of farm produce, goods and properties from this fertile agricultural area. More importantly, it will reduce accidents and security breaches associated with maritime transportation.”

Deacon Bassey Lezua, a community leader in Kaa, expressed delight that the project, which had been stalled for several years and appeared neglected, had been revived.

He stated, “The contractor has returned to the site, and we will give them all the assistance they require to complete the project.”

He stated that some communities, such as Oyorokoto, one of the region’s largest fishing ports, were critical growth areas.
Mrs Zorbari Pimnee, a businesswoman in the Kaa community, urged the NDDC to ensure that the contractor did not delay the project again, pointing out that businesses in the area could only thrive if the road was completed.