In a significant step towards fostering development in the Niger Delta region, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has officially initiated the reconstruction of the 18-kilometre Owaza-Uzuaku-144 Battalion-Afam Junction Road in Ukwa West Local Government Area of Abia State.
The flag-off ceremony, held in Owaza, featured the NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, affirming the Commission’s commitment to advancing development and instilling hope in Niger Deltans, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. Chief Eruba Dimgba, representing Ogbuku, emphasized the Commission’s dedication to expediting progress in the Niger Delta.
Dr. Ogbuku underscored the road’s potential to significantly impact the lives of people and revitalize communities that have endured years of neglect, despite being situated in the state’s oil-producing belt. He urged the beneficiary communities to collaborate with the contractor to ensure timely project completion.
Expressing gratitude to the communities in Ukwa West, Ogbuku promised continued execution of projects enhancing living conditions. The 18-kilometre road, long in a state of disrepair, has adversely affected socio-economic activities in the area.
The traditional ruler of Etiti Onha Owaza, Eze Obioma Nworgu, praised NDDC for swiftly addressing the “death-trap” road, urging inclusion of local youth in NDDC scholarship programs, empowerment initiatives, and employments. He also appealed for his community’s incorporation into the ongoing installation of electricity facilities, particularly solar-powered lights.
He said: “I commend the NDDC for this intervention and many other projects executed in Abia State. I am appealing that our children should be carried along in the NDDC’s scholarship programme, empowerments and employments.”
Providing project details, Engr. Kingsley Azu, Head of Project Monitoring and Supervision in NDDC Abia State office, highlighted the road’s route through various communities, including Owaza, Okohia, Uzuaku, Umuelechi, and Ezendioma.
Assuring protection of the project, Mr. Alwell Nwagbara, President of the National Youth Council of Ukwa West LGA, pledged the youth’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for the contractor.
Dr. Matt Offeh, Chief Executive of the project-handling company, emphasized the road’s significance for oil-producing communities in Abia State, commending NDDC for fostering development across the Niger Delta region.
