By Obiabin Onukwugha
The Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, says it is set to commence the channelisation of Kolo Creek connecting Okarki-Otuogidi-Ogbia communities of Rivers and Bayelsa states.
The project if executed will address flooding and other health issues traceable to the blocked creeks in both states.
NDDC Director, Community and Rural Development, CRD, Engr. Theophilus Allagoa, revealed this at a two-day Needs Assessment/Town Hall Engagement with various leaders and youths at Emeyal II community in Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.
A statement by the NDDC Director of Corporate Affairs, Seledi Thompson-Wakama, on Wednesday, indicated that the channelisation of the Kolo creek along communities in the two states was a response to a passionate appeal from the traditional head of Ogbia kingdom asking for urgent intervention to remove the blockages that is detrimental to affected communities.
Related Posts
Alagoa, who was represented by the Deputy Director, CRD, Mrs. Ebi Morowei Ake, at the event explained that the interaction with the people was hinged on a Needs assessment, and solicited the commitment of the people in ensuring that the project is successfully executed.
“We, officials from Community and Rural Development of NDDC, are here today on the directives of the Managing Director to get the Needs assessment and also feel the pulse of the people and then take back reports to the Commission,” he said.
In his remarks, the Paramount Ruler of Ogbia Kingdom, King Charles Waba who was represented by Chief Augustine Nari Okeu, stated that the channelisation project will help to reduce the threat of cholera disease and other health challenges associated with water borne diseases, improve aquatic life, boost trade and other economic activities among the people of Nembe, Brass, Ogbia, Akassa among others.
He also described the proposed channelisation project of the creeks from Kolo to Okarki by the NDDC as a great achievement of the present leadership of the Commission under Dr Samuel Ogboku.
Also speaking, the Traditional Head of Okarki community in Ahoada West local government area of Rivers State, King Elijah Hari Adua, lauded the leadership for NDDC for taking the bold step to address problem.
He stated: ” We are delighted as a people and have come together to celebrate the Managing Director of NDDC for his decision to come to our aid by initiating the clearing of the blockages in the various creeks and linking them to pave way for free flow of water that will definitely boost our economic activities.”
