NDDC Infrastructure Boost Transforms Ughelli North, Fuels Economic Growth

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has significantly improved transport and commerce in Ughelli North Local Government Area (LGA), Delta State, thanks to the completion of the expanded Evuwreni Ring Road and the installation of solar-powered streetlights.

The projects, which have been lauded by residents and local businesses alike, are already reducing transport costs and promoting regional economic growth.

For years, the Evuwreni Ring Road was in disrepair, impeding the efficient movement of goods and services between rural communities and Ughelli’s urban centre.

Farmers struggled to get their produce to markets, businesses faced longer delivery times and higher costs, and commuters endured long, difficult journeys on poorly maintained roads.

The NDDC’s expansion project has completely changed the landscape.

The road has been significantly widened and resurfaced, with improved drainage systems, making it accessible even during the rainy season.

This has dramatically reduced travel time, resulting in a significant increase in the volume of goods transported. Chief Emmanuel Ogheneovo, a prominent farmer in the area, expressed his joy, saying,

“Prior to the upgrade, it took me nearly three hours to get my yam and cassava to the market in Ughelli. Now it takes less than an hour. This means less spoilage, lower transportation costs, and higher profits for me and other farmers.”

The impact goes beyond agriculture. Small businesses operating in rural areas are also seeing significant growth.

Mrs. Patience Oedema, who owns a small textile business, stated, “The improved road has made it much easier for me to transport my finished products to the market.” I have seen a significant increase in sales since the road was upgraded.

She also stated that the lower transportation costs have allowed her to reinvest profits back into her business, thereby stimulating local economic activity.

In addition to the road expansion, solar-powered streetlights will be installed along the entire route. This innovation addressed a long-standing security issue in the area.

Previously, inadequate lighting made the road unsafe for night travel, discouraging economic activity after dark.

However, the solar-powered lights ensure safe passage for commuters and businesses, allowing businesses to operate longer hours and providing a safer environment for the community.

The project’s success has fuelled calls for increased investment in infrastructure development throughout the Niger Delta region.

Mr. Johnbull Okoro, a representative of the Ughelli North LGA council, stated, “This project demonstrates what can be accomplished when there is a concerted effort to invest in infrastructure.”

“We urge the NDDC to maintain its commitment to developing critical infrastructure that promotes economic growth and improves our people’s lives.”

The NDDC has yet to release the project’s total cost, but sources indicate that it is a significant investment in the region’s development.

The agency has committed to continuing to monitor and maintain the infrastructure to ensure its long-term effectiveness and positive impact on the community.

The successful completion of the Evuwreni Ring Road expansion and solar street lighting project serves as a model for future development initiatives in the Niger Delta region.

The project emphasises the importance of infrastructure development in driving economic growth and improving the quality of life in rural communities.