NDDC pledges compensation, seeks PANDEF partnership to fast-track Niger Delta devt

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has assured residents of Ibifaka Polo community in Borikiri, Port Harcourt, of the imminent payment of compensation to owners of properties affected by the right-of-way for the Borikiri–Okrika Bridge project, as part of efforts to fast-track construction work.

The assurance was given by the NDDC Executive Director, Finance and Administration, Alabo Boma Iyaye, during an inspection of the Borikiri alignment of the road and bridge project. Iyaye said delays on the project, which was awarded in 2012, were largely due to changes in administration and funding challenges, but stressed that the current board had prioritised its completion as a legacy project.

“Although this project has suffered delays over the years, upon the inauguration of the current NDDC Board, we identified it as one of our legacy projects to be completed,” Iyaye said. “Last year, we engaged the contractors, who moved to site almost immediately. The major issue delaying progress on the Borikiri end has been compensation, and this will be addressed with immediate effect.”

The Borikiri–Okrika Bridge project, which will link Port Harcourt and Okrika Local Government Areas of Rivers State, comprises three bridges: the Kolabi Bridge (180 metres) at Etche Waterfront, the Abotoru Bridge (1,120 metres) at the midpoint, and the Okpoka Bridge (490 metres). While significant progress has been recorded on the Okrika alignment, work at the Borikiri end stalled due to unresolved compensation issues.

Iyaye assured community members that inspections had been concluded and that construction would resume once all modalities were finalised. During a courtesy visit to the palace of the Amayanabo of Ancient Borikiri Kingdom, King Berechiri Wilfred Yemaiyaye, the monarch commended the NDDC for the intervention and expressed hope that the project would usher in broader development to the area.

Project Consultant, Engr. Azu Chukwuma, said the project had received strong support from host communities, noting that it would bring much-needed development to the area. Similarly, the Youth President of Ibifaka Polo, Mr Precious Tobin George, thanked the NDDC for the renewed commitment, expressing confidence that the project would stimulate socio-economic growth upon completion.

Meanwhile, the Commission has also restated its commitment to collaborate closely with the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), the apex socio-cultural and political body of the region, in advancing development across the Niger Delta. Iyaye made this known during a courtesy visit by a PANDEF delegation to the NDDC headquarters in Port Harcourt.

He described PANDEF as the voice of the Niger Delta people in the civic space and assured the delegation, led by PANDEF National Treasurer, Mrs Ifeoma Agboma, of sustained partnership. Iyaye noted that 2025 marked the 25th anniversary of the NDDC, which was commemorated with several activities, including the commissioning of completed projects.

He added that the Commission remained committed to completing its legacy projects in line with the directive of President Bola Tinubu, and commended PANDEF National Chairman, Ambassador Godknows Igali, for his continued advocacy in the interest of the region.

Speaking earlier, Mrs Agboma praised the NDDC Management, led by the Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, for implementing projects and programmes that have positively impacted communities in the Niger Delta. She emphasised the importance of unity and regional solidarity, describing them as critical to the sustainable development of the region.