The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has commenced the channelization of Kolo Creek, traversing 17 communities from Okarki-Otuogidi to Ogbia communities in Rivers and Bayelsa states.
Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony at Okarki in Ahoada West Local Government Area of Rivers State, the NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, said that the project would reduce flooding in surrounding communities and mitigate its impact on the Ahoada axis of the East-West Road.
He stated that the channelization project would also boost commercial activities in the area, improve aquatic life, and reduce the threat of waterborne diseases to rural communities.
According to a statement signed by Seledi Thompson-Wakama, Director of Corporate Communications, the NDDC boss observed that although the project was costly, the benefits for the people far outweighed the expense. He stated: “We have started the project, and we will complete it on schedule.”
Ogbuku noted that the channelization of Kolo Creek, which serves several communities in Bayelsa and Rivers states, was a response to an appeal from community leaders requesting urgent intervention to remove blockages that could cause significant damage if not promptly addressed.
In his remarks, the NDDC Executive Director of Projects, Sir Victor Antai, described the channelization of the creek as a significant achievement of the Commission’s current management under the Managing Director.
He said the NDDC demonstrated the essence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda through life-changing projects like this one.
The Traditional Ruler of Okarki, King Elijah Harry Aduan, commended the NDDC leadership for taking the bold step of addressing the problem of Kolo Creek’s blockage.
To show their appreciation, the royal father bestowed upon the NDDC Managing Director a chieftaincy title, decorating him as the “Itonji Oka-Akie I” (Light of the People) of Okarki Kingdom.
He stated: “We are delighted as a people and have come to appreciate the NDDC for initiating the clearing of blockages in the creek to ensure a free flow of water that will boost our economic activities.”
In a related development, the NDDC has inspected one of the emergency shelters being built by the Commission in Otuokpoti community in Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.
Speaking after the inspection, the NDDC boss said the Commission was taking proactive steps to mitigate the impact of the recurring floods in the region.
Ogbuku noted that the project was conceived in response to the frequent flooding challenges faced by Niger Delta communities.
He explained that the emergency shelter would include essential amenities such as a school, hospital, cafeteria, police post, and recreation center, providing comprehensive support to communities in times of distress.
“We have six of these facilities currently under construction in Otuokpoti and Odi in Bayelsa State, while those in Delta State are being built in Patani and Ozoro, and two more in Rivers State,” he explained.
He noted that the emergency shelter, which could accommodate over 1,000 people, was designed to serve as a temporary refuge during flood emergencies.
“When completed, the emergency shelters will provide temporary accommodation and necessary services to communities in the event of emergencies,” he said.
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