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Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on Friday urged the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to collaborate with state governments to rehabilitate essential federal roads throughout the region.
During the inauguration of the new NDDC State Office in Warri, Governor Oborevwori highlighted that the establishment of this office represents a mutual commitment to development, inclusivity, and effective service delivery.
He stressed that achieving true progress necessitates cooperation and a renewed effort to enhance infrastructure, education, healthcare, and community empowerment.
The Governor specifically called on the Commission to address the deteriorating conditions of roads that have brought significant difficulties to commuters, underscoring that Delta State has allocated ₦35.7 billion for the rehabilitation of the Warri/Sapele/Benin Road, a crucial route linking Delta to Bayelsa, Rivers, and Cross River States.
Oborevwori expressed his intention to work alongside the NDDC on projects such as the Omadino–Okerenkoko–Escravos Road. He announced plans for a joint meeting involving the state government, Chevron, and the Commission scheduled for early next month to outline further actions.
In his remarks, the Governor praised NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, for his leadership and commitment to fostering development, stating that the new office signifies institutional stability and a renewed focus on purpose.
Additionally, Oborevwori commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his Renewed Hope Agenda, asserting that it has bolstered state finances, promoted inclusivity, and restored public confidence in governance.
“No state in Nigeria compensates contractors more promptly than Delta. We do not rely on borrowing and have no outstanding debts to contractors,” he assured, promising ongoing transparency and accountability in his administration.
Minister of Niger Delta Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh, emphasized President Bola Tinubu’s directive for the NDDC to complete all stalled projects in the region, many of which have now reached completion and commissioning stages.
He highlighted achievements such as the restoration of electricity in Okitipupa after 15 years of blackout, the construction of vital bridges and substations, and the initiation of health and educational projects across multiple states.
The Minister urged NDDC staff to uphold the maintenance of newly constructed facilities and to remain impartial, reiterating the Commission’s commitment to serving all communities in the Niger Delta without bias.
NDDC Chairman, Mr. Chiedu Ebie, and Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, both reaffirmed their willingness to work with Delta State and other Niger Delta states to achieve sustainable development.
Ebie noted that the 7th Governing Board, appointed by President Tinubu, has enhanced governance by implementing a new transparency framework developed in partnership with KPMG.
Ogbuku explained that the new Delta office is part of the Commission’s initiative “from transactions to transformation,” with similar projects being undertaken across the region.
He disclosed that there are ongoing collaborations with the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) on ₦650 billion worth of infrastructure initiatives, including roads and bridges, assuring that the NDDC remains devoted to accountability, partnerships, and the timely execution of legacy projects that will improve the lives of Niger Deltans.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by notable guests, including Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, Chairman of the Senate Committee on NDDC, and Hon. Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu, Chairman of the House Committee on NDDC.
