NDDC MD, DR. SAMUEL OGBUKU (2nd from left, Director CAD, Dr. Abosede, 3rd from right) and Odi chiefs
BY GABRIEL OKECHUKWU, FRCN PORT HARCOURT
Managing Director Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC DR. Samuel Ogbuku has pledged a permanent remedy to erosion challenge confronting Odi Community in Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area, Bayelsa State.
Dr. Ogbuku who made the pledge during a working visit to the community told the people that the present management of the interventionist agency has adopted stakeholders engagement to drive development to the hinter lands in Niger Delta region.
Odi a predominantly coastal Ijaw community that was brought down to its knees over two decades ago following an invasion has however recovered from the effects but is facing environmental issues.
As a coastal community, the issues of flooding and erosion have been perennial and posing serious threat to the area.
Addressing the residents after inspection of erosion affected areas in the community, the Managing Director Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku who expressed displeasure over the effects of flood and erosion in the locality, assured the people of the commitment of NDDC to bring a lasting solution to the challenges.
While emphasizing stakeholder’s engagement, Dr Ogbuku said that procurement process would soon commence for shoreline protection contract as well as installation of solar powered streetlight in in the locality.
The Chief executive Officer of the interventionist agency applauded the residents for supporting the Federal government, insisting that the projects would see the light of the day, having been captured in the budget.
Earlier on, during a courtesy call at the palace of the paramount ruler of Odi kingdom, His Royal Highness, King Shine Apre, the Secretary of Odi Council of Chiefs, Chief Truman Abiama Said that Odi has ecological challenges needing urgent attention.
Chief Abiama who appreciated the managing Director for visiting the community to assess the situation personally, also requested for road construction, youth cum women empowerment and employment opportunities.
