Ngo, Andoni, Rivers state – The Rivers State Government has launched an ambitious intervention program for Andoni Local Government Area, targeting long-standing development gaps in the oil-producing region that has paradoxically suffered neglect despite its economic contributions.
At a high-stakes town hall meeting today, Sole Administrator Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (Rtd) unveiled plans to transform Andoni through coordinated security, infrastructure and human capital development initiatives. The summit, held at the LGA headquarters in Ngo, brought together traditional rulers, women leaders, youth groups and security chiefs.
This was contained in a statement released by Hector Igbikiowubo, the Senior Special Adviser – Media, Rivers State Government
Represented by Rivers State Police Commissioner Olugbenga Adepoju, the administrator confronted the painful paradox: “Andoni fuels Nigeria’s economy yet suffers infrastructure deficit and unemployment.” He announced immediate plans to:
• Pressure oil companies to increase local employment
• Upgrade critical infrastructure
• Enhance security for coastal communities
Andoni LGA Administrator Surveyor Atajit Francis welcomed the intervention, noting: “After years of neglect, this marks a turning point for our people who have watched oil wealth develop other regions while we lacked basic amenities.”
Community Leaders Present Charter of Demands
Stakeholders delivered a comprehensive development agenda:
The IYC Vice President Bethel Philip demanded: Vocational training centers, Electrification for Ajak-Ajak community, and JTF protection for fishermen against pirates.
The CDC Chairman Clement Sunday highlighted: Collapsing Road networks in Seven Districts, Chronic power shortages and Inadequate security coverage.
The Market Women leader Oruru Pepple appealed for maternal healthcare upgrades, microcredit schemes and anti-piracy security posts.
Also speaking, the Ataba Kingdom’s Paramount Ruler Dr. Benson Egwene called for a new Area Police Command in Ngo and funding for community policing.
The government team conducted spot assessments of a dilapidated primary school and under-equipped health center, symbolizing the region’s development challenges.
CP Adepoju assured: “All requests are being prioritized. The era of empty promises ends today.” Permanent Secretaries accompanying the delegation immediately began documenting action points for implementation.
Andoni’s strategic location in Rivers’ oil belt makes its stability crucial for national energy security. The new development push aims to prevent youth restiveness while creating sustainable livelihoods.
