Engineers say NDDC projects are boosting economic links in Niger Delta
The Nigerian Society of Engineers, Yenagoa Branch, has praised the Niger Delta Development Commission for its road and bridge projects across the region. Eluanatein Mac Jokori, the branch chairman, highlighted how these projects are opening up rural communities and improving access to markets. He emphasized that the real value of the infrastructure lies in the economic opportunities and connectivity it creates, not just in their cost or length. The projects are also helping to address transportation challenges caused by the region’s difficult terrain.
What we know
- Eluanatein Mac Jokori said the NDDC’s roads and bridges are connecting communities and enabling farmers, traders, and residents to move goods more easily.
- Key projects mentioned include the Ogbia-Nembe Road, Yenegwe-Ogbia Road rehabilitation, Emeyal-Elebele Road, and Otuasega-Obedum-Emelego Road in Bayelsa State.
- The Ogbia-Nembe Road, with seven bridges and 9.15 km of prefabricated vertical drains, demonstrates the engineering challenges of the region.
- Other highlighted projects are the Iko-Atabrikang-Opolom-Iwuo Achang Road and Ibeno Bridge in Akwa Ibom, Obehie-Oke-Ikpe Road in Abia, and Ogu Community Road Network in Rivers State.
- The Ogu project, commissioned in January 2026, features concrete roads and drainage; Jokori stressed that proper maintenance and durability are crucial for long-term benefits.
