13 April 2013, Port Harcourt – The Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, has inaugurated 20 projects in Cross River State.
The projects, acknowledged by leaders of beneficiary communities as having improved the living conditions of the people include roads, classroom blocks, electrification and solar-powered water supply.
Inaugurating the projects, NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Christian Oboh, represented by Cross River State Representative on the Board of the Commission, Dominic Edem, said the Commission was determined to complete its projects.
Dr. Oboh said gone were the days when children learn under trees and trek long distance to fetch water from the streams, disclosing that “NDDC will bridge the gap by ensuring that the people have adequate classrooms to learn and potable water to drink”.
In his remarks, Head of Akim Akim Qua clan in Odukpani Local Government Area, Chief Francis Omin, thanked the Commission for bringing the projects to the community.
“We really thank the NDDC for their intervention. The light will attract investors and open the way for economic activities”.
Speaking on behalf of the Chairman of Abi Local Government Area, Hon. Emmanuel Elemi thanked the Commission for finding his community worthy of the projects, and pledged maximum utilization.
The Paramount Ruler, Ikot Ansa Community, Barr. Patrick Oguagbo while thanking the NDDC said the road will reduce traffic congestion and open up the state for development.
On his part, Rev. Fr. David Udo, Vice Principal (Administration), St. Patrick’s College thanked the Commission for meeting the needs of the school.
“We are happy that we have water now. Our students used to go out to look for water trekking several kilometers; NDDC has brought life to us because water is life,” he said.
