The Paramount Ruler of Mbiama town in Rivers State, His Royal Highness Otovie Smith Sylvanus, has expressed gratitude to the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for its grassroots development initiatives in the region.
Speaking to newsmen in his palace over the weekend, Sylvanus particularly praised the NDDC for the “Light Up Niger Delta” project which according to him has improved security and reduced juvenile delinquency by illuminating the area.
He however appealed to the NDDC to consider taking over a community-initiated bypass road project which connects Agbor Road to Ishayi Town and Yenagoa metropolis in Bayelsa State.
He added the project was initiated by the community but stalled due to funding constraints and expressed optimism that NDDC’s support would not only reduce travel time but also boost economic development in the region.
The Paramount Ruler emphasized that the road is crucial for farmers, students, market women, and other users, particularly during the rainy season when it becomes difficult to navigate and urged the NDDC to adopt the project and work closely with community leaders to identify areas of urgent infrastructural needs.
His words ” I want to particularly thank the NDDC for the various grassroots oriented projects dotting the Niger Delta landscape. Those in the helms of affairs are doing a great job, their mandate is to facilitate the sustainable development of the Niger Delta region, focusing on projects in transportation, health, education, employment, and infrastructure.
” My appeal to the Commission is to come and help us complete the road project started by my leadership but lack of fund has hindered it’s completion. Let the NDDC takeover the construction of this road in order to address the socio-economic challenges in the area.”.