NDDC urges communities to protect development projects in Cross River
The Niger Delta Development Commission has cautioned traditional rulers, youths, and community leaders in Cross River State against vandalising its development projects. Daniel Ajuwa, the state director of the commission, highlighted the importance of community ownership and protection during a sensitisation programme in Calabar. The NDDC warned that communities failing to safeguard these facilities may miss out on future interventions. The commission expressed concern over repeated vandalism, especially of solar-powered street lights and other critical infrastructure.
What we know
- Daniel Ajuwa stated that the NDDC has invested heavily in infrastructure like solar-powered street lights, but some youths have vandalised these facilities for personal gain.
- Communities that do not protect NDDC projects risk being excluded from future interventions by the commission.
- Over 100 stakeholders, including security agencies, traditional leaders, and government officials, attended the sensitisation programme.
- Dr. Carol-Bichene Ebuta noted that about 50 per cent of NDDC projects in the region are no longer functioning due to vandalism and lack of community ownership.
- Residents were urged to form vigilance groups and maintain the environment around the projects to keep them functional and beneficial.
