*Hands over Dappa Biriye House to Rivers Govt
Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — The Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, has concluded movement of the Commission to its new headquarters at the Eastern Bypass, from Harold Dappa Biriye House, on Aba Road in Port Harcourt.
Handing over the keys of the former headquarters building to the Secretary to the Rivers State Government, Dr Tammy Danagogo, NDDC Interim Administrator, Mr. Efiong Akwa, thanked the Rivers State for accommodating the Commission for the past 16 years.
Akwa stated that the government had given the Commission maximum support, noting that the construction of the Eastern Bypass Road linking the new headquarters of the Commission was another evidence of the governor’s goodwill.
“We are leaving this building peacefully and we are grateful to the Rivers State Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike, for the assistance his administration has given to the NDDC, especially in the last two years.
“Governor Wike has given us tremendous support. It is on record that during his tenure, we have not recorded any kidnapping of our staff and we have not had issues with youths disturbing our contractors.”
The NDDC boss told the SSG that the Commission was leaving behind four lifts, a giant water tank and pumps, as well as fire-fighting equipment. He assured him that the Commission would continue to secure the property until the government assembles its own security team for the building.
Responding, the Rivers State SSG, Dr Danagogo, commended the NDDC for cooperating with the Rivers State government and ensuring a friendly and peaceful hand over of the property.
Danagogo remarked that the Rivers State had always given support to Federal Government agencies in the state, especially under the administration of Governor Wike.
He assured that the government would continue to support the NDDC to ensure that it succeeded with delivering on its mandate for the development of the Niger Delta region.
“It shows that you value the relationship NDDC has with the Rivers State Government and that you consider today’s event as a very significant ceremony. I am impressed by your candour and vibrancy.”
