Niger Delta, anxious for more development, Bayelsa monarch tells NDDC

A traditional leader in Bayelsa State, David Amakiri, has expressed to the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) that the people of the Niger Delta are eager for increased development.

He made these remarks during a visit from NDDC Managing Director Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, who brought a delegation to Amakiri’s palace in Oruma, Ogbia Local Government Area. Amakiri praised the NDDC for its numerous development initiatives across the Niger Delta.

The details of the visit were shared in a statement issued by NDDC’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Seledi Thompson-Wakama, on Sunday.

Accompanying Ogbuku were Senator Denyanbofa Dimaro, the Bayelsa State representative on the NDDC Board, along with other Commission Directors.

Amakiri recognized the NDDC’s significant contributions to both his community and the broader local government area, expressing gratitude for the various projects that have enhanced the quality of life for his people. He specifically noted the construction of the Oruma rigid pavement road and additional internal roads, highlighting the infrastructure challenges his community faced prior to these improvements.

He emphasized that the NDDC has every reason to deliver on its promises given the prevailing peace in the region. “Our people are eager for more development initiatives. We have played our part in maintaining peace in the Niger Delta, and with that established, there should be no barriers to regional development,” he stated.

During the visit, Ogbuku congratulated Amakiri on his recent recognition as the Obanobhan of Emeyal Clan in Ogbia Local Government Area. He acknowledged the vital role traditional leaders play in fostering peace and stability in their communities.

Ogbuku urged the monarch to continue promoting peace in his area, noting that it is essential for the swift implementation of development projects. He also mentioned that the NDDC has begun mobilizing contractors for a channelization project on Kolo Creek, which will connect the Okarki-Otuogidi-Ogbia communities across Rivers and Bayelsa states.

This project aims to clear blockages that have caused flooding in these areas, thereby reducing the risk of cholera and other waterborne diseases linked to flooding.