From TONY JOHN, Port Harcourt
The Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Samuel Ogbuku, has said that the commission was fast-tracking the construction work on the Oruma rigid pavement road, in Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, to ensure its commissioning next month.
Speaking during an inspection of the road, in the company of NDDC directors and engineers, Ogbuku, said that it would serve as a major by-pass for commuters in many communities in both Bayelsa and Rivers states.
He explained that the Oruma road, which links another NDDC road, the 23.5-kilometre Otuasega-Obedum-Emelego road and bridges, connecting Bayelsa and Rivers communities, would enhance the impact of the regional road.
According to Ogbuku, the completion of the road project was part of efforts by the NDDC management to complete all on-going projects in the Niger Delta region.
He observed: “The road is very important, because it would help people of the area, mostly farmers, to evacuate their agricultural produce to the cities and towns for sale.
Ogbuku urged community leaders and youths in the area to corporate with contractor handling the project to enable him complete the road on schedule,
He stated: “The contractor has been given a marching order to complete this road by the end of October.”
Reacting to the deadline, the contractor, Mr. Charles Yibaepirima, assured the NDDC team that he would complete the project on schedule.
He gave kudos to the NDDC for initiating the project and commended the Oruma community for their cooperation and support.
He described members of the community as worthy partners in the construction process.
He noted: “The people have been cooperative and receptive since the commencement of this project. We thank them for their support.”
In his remarks, the Community Liaison Officer, Mr. Ken Ejibas, thanked the NDDC for executing the road project and acknowledged the commission’s contributions to the growth of the community.
He said: “I am here liaising between the community and the contractor. The people of Oruma are hospitable, we have yearned for this project and we are happy to see that it is nearing completion. We pray to see more projects in our area.”