NDDC begins channelisation of creek in Bayelsa, Rivers

The Niger Delta Development Commission has announced the commencement of the channelisation of Kolo Creek, spanning 17 communities from Okarki-Otuogidi to the Ogbia communities in Rivers and Bayelsa states.

Speaking at the ground-breaking ceremony in Okarki, Ahoada West Local Government Area, Rivers State, NDDC Managing Director, Samuel Ogbuku said the project aims to reduce flooding in surrounding communities and mitigate its impact on the Ahoada axis of the East-West Road.

This was disclosed in a statement issued in Port Harcourt on Tuesday by the Director of Corporate Affairs, NDDC, Seledi Thompson-Wakama.
Ogbuku stated that the channelisation project would also enhance commercial activities in the area, improve aquatic life, and reduce the threat of water-borne diseases to rural communities.

The NDDC chief noted that while the project is costly, the benefits for the communities far outweigh the expense, stating, “We have started the project, and we will complete it on schedule.”

Ogbuku explained that the channelisation of Kolo Creek, which serves several communities in Bayelsa and Rivers states, was initiated in response to an appeal from local leaders seeking urgent intervention to clear blockages that could cause severe damage if left unaddressed.

NDDC Executive Director of Projects, Sir Victor Antai, described the channelisation of the creek as a significant achievement of the current Commission management under the Managing Director.

Antai added that the NDDC exemplifies the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration through impactful projects like this one.

The Traditional Ruler of Okarki, King Elijah Harry Aduan, commended the NDDC leadership for taking decisive action to resolve the issue of Kolo Creek’s blockage.

As a gesture of appreciation, Aduan awarded the NDDC Managing Director a chieftaincy title, naming him “Itonji Oka-Akie I” (light of the people) of Okarki Kingdom.

He remarked, “We are delighted as a people and wish to thank the NDDC for initiating the clearing of the creek blockages to ensure a free flow of water that will enhance our economic activities.”

In a related development, the NDDC inspected one of the emergency shelters being built by the Commission in Otuokpoti community, Ogbia Local Government Area, Bayelsa.

Following the inspection, the NDDC Managing Director noted that the Commission is taking proactive steps to alleviate the impact of perennial flooding in the region.

Ogbuku explained that the project was developed in response to the recurring flooding challenges faced by Niger Deltans. He noted that the emergency shelter facilities would include essential amenities such as a school, hospital, cafeteria, police post, and recreation centre, providing comprehensive support to communities during periods of crisis.

He added, “We have six of these facilities currently under construction in Otuokpoti and Odi in Bayelsa State, while the ones in Delta State are being built in Patani and Ozorro, with two more in Rivers State.”

He also mentioned that the emergency shelters, designed to accommodate over 1,000 people, would serve as temporary refuges during flood emergencies, stating, “When completed, these shelters will offer temporary accommodation and essential services to communities in times of emergency.”