NDDC Commended For Sustainable Development Efforts In Niger Delta Infrastructure Projects

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has been lauded by the Federal Minister of Environment, Mallam Balarabe Abbas Lawal, for its significant contributions to the provision of critical infrastructure across the Niger Delta region.

The commendation was given during a stakeholders’ engagement forum held in Port Harcourt, which focused on Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) for proposed road projects in Rivers State.

According to a press statement issued by Seledi Thompson-Wakama, Director of Corporate Affairs, the Minister praised the NDDC’s commitment to sustainable development and its dedication to addressing long-standing infrastructural deficits in Niger Delta communities.

The forum, a collaborative initiative involving the Federal Ministry of Environment, the NDDC, and the Rivers State Ministry of Environment, centered on three key projects: the construction of a 4 km Bonny Internal Road in Degema and Bonny Local Government Areas; the construction of the Luebe-Agbani-Lueku Road in Khana LGA; and the construction of the 6 km Egelebia Road, Phase 2, in George-Ama, Okrika LGA.

Representing the Minister, Engr. Manji Justine, an Environmental and Chemical Engineer from the Ministry of Environment, commended the NDDC for adhering to the Environmental Impact Assessment Act before the commencement of projects.

“We are not here to stop the projects but to ensure they align with environmental laws to protect the future and guarantee sustainability,” Engr. Justine stated.

She added that the Ministry, alongside the state government and affected communities, will monitor the projects through baseline data collection and post-construction site assessments following EIA approval.

She also stressed the importance of incorporating proper drainage systems to mitigate flooding and advocated for covered drainage channels in residential areas to prevent waste dumping and blockages.

“The NDDC has taken a bold and commendable step by addressing road infrastructure gaps that have long affected these communities. Every identified impact in the EIA process must have a mitigation strategy,” she emphasized.

Engr. Aniefiok Iniokut, NDDC Director II, Environmental Protection and Control, explained that the forum aimed to facilitate dialogue between the Commission, the Ministry, and the affected communities prior to project commencement.

“It’s only through such engagements that we can understand the full social and environmental implications of these projects.

“The feedback so far shows overwhelming community support and a clear understanding of the projects’ benefits,” he said, noting that the forum confirmed no objections and that the projects’ positive impacts significantly outweighed any potential negative effects. He assured stakeholders of the NDDC’s commitment to the successful completion of the projects.

Community leaders also expressed their appreciation. Chief Godknows Tam-George, Head of the Dokube Royal House in Okrika, conveyed his gratitude to the NDDC and its Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, for initiating the projects.

“For years, Egedeme lacked basic infrastructure. Within a short period under the current NDDC leadership, we’ve received a 2km road, a 6km road, and a water project. These are life-changing developments,” he stated.

Similarly, Chief Samson Barilugbene Obrien, the Paramount Ruler of Baa-Lueku, praised the project’s potential to boost economic opportunities.

“This road will bridge the gap between our community and others. It will open up access for trade, ease transportation, and serve as a vital link to Akwa Ibom via Aba,” he said.

Dr. Mrs. Ukpe Eno, NDDC Deputy Director, Environmental Protection and Control, underscored the importance of stakeholder engagement in driving sustainable development in her remarks.

The NDDC’s commitment to these collaborative efforts underscores its dedication to responsible development in the Niger Delta region.