NDDC provides emergency shelter to aid flooding

The Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), announced that the Commission is constructing six multi-purpose emergency shelters in Bayelsa, Delta, and Rivers states for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in anticipation of flooding in the Niger Delta.

During a press conference at the NDDC headquarters in Port Harcourt, Ogbuku highlighted that this initiative aims to address the region’s recurring flood challenges. He explained that the shelters will include essential amenities such as a school, hospital, cafeteria, police post, and recreation center to support communities during emergencies.

He detailed that two shelters are being built in Otuokpoti and Odi, Bayelsa State, with additional facilities in Patani and Ozorro in Delta State, and two more in Rivers State.

Ogbuku also stated that the NDDC plans to enhance community safety across the nine Niger Delta states with solar-powered streetlights as part of efforts to combat crime and promote peace. He noted that the “Light Up the Niger Delta” campaign has already reduced crime and boosted local businesses.

Discussing youth empowerment, he announced the launch of the Holistic Opportunities Programme of Engagement (HOPE) later this month in Port Harcourt. He emphasized the importance of entrepreneurial skills for youth development, aiming to equip them with self-sustaining skills that benefit their families and communities.

Ogbuku highlighted the NDDC’s collaboration with the Niger Delta Chambers of Commerce to support farmers and entrepreneurs. He stressed the need for technological advancement, stating that the Commission is prepared to partner with organizations to create training platforms for youth.

Additionally, the NDDC has procured 45,000 U-Lesson tablets for distribution to schools in the region, set to launch soon.

He also listed some of the NDDC’s achievements, including the completion of impactful projects across the nine states. Notable projects include the 25.7-kilometer Ogbia-Nembe Road, constructed with Shell Petroleum Development Company, and the commissioning of a 132KV transmission line and substation in Ondo State, which will serve over 2,000 communities.

Other projects mentioned include the 600-meter Ibeno Bridge and the 6.87-kilometer Iko-Atabrikang-Opolom-IwuoAchang Road in Akwa Ibom State, and the reconstruction of the Obehie to Oke Ikpe Road in Abia State.

Source: Tony John