Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Members of the National Assembly joint committee overseeing the Niger Delta Development Commission have commended the administration of Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu following an inspection of ongoing development projects in the state, describing the level of cooperation and progress as encouraging for regional growth.
The delegation, led by Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, visited Calabar as part of its statutory oversight responsibilities on the activities of the Niger Delta Development Commission. The visit focused on evaluating the implementation, transparency, and overall impact of projects funded and executed by the commission within Cross River State.
During the engagement, lawmakers assessed multiple infrastructure initiatives, with particular attention given to road construction, economic development programmes, and community-based interventions aimed at improving living standards across the state. The committee emphasized that its oversight function is critical to ensuring that public funds allocated to the NDDC are effectively utilized and deliver tangible benefits to host communities.
Senator Ekpenyong noted that the level of collaboration between the state government and the commission has contributed significantly to the pace and quality of project execution observed. He stated that such partnerships are essential in addressing long-standing developmental challenges in the Niger Delta region, where infrastructure deficits and environmental issues have historically hindered growth.
The committee members expressed satisfaction with what they described as visible progress in key sectors, particularly in road infrastructure, which remains central to economic connectivity and social mobility. They commended Governor Otu’s leadership style, highlighting his administration’s commitment to aligning state priorities with federal intervention programmes for maximum impact.
Governor Otu, in his remarks, reiterated his administration’s dedication to fostering development through strategic partnerships with federal agencies and development bodies. He noted that the state government remains focused on creating an enabling environment for sustainable growth, emphasizing transparency, accountability, and community engagement as guiding principles.
The governor also underscored the importance of infrastructure development in unlocking economic opportunities, particularly in areas such as agriculture, tourism, and small-scale industries. He expressed appreciation for the continued support of the National Assembly and the NDDC, noting that such cooperation is vital to achieving long-term development goals.
Also speaking during the visit, the Managing Director of the NDDC, Samuel Ogbuku, provided updates on key projects currently underway in Cross River State. He disclosed that the commission has undertaken a 27-kilometre road project in the state, with more than 10 kilometres already completed.
Ogbuku described the project as part of the commission’s broader efforts to enhance infrastructure and improve accessibility in the Niger Delta region. He noted that road construction remains a priority due to its direct impact on economic activities, including trade, transportation, and access to essential services.
He further highlighted the importance of synergy between the NDDC and state governments, stating that effective collaboration helps to avoid duplication of efforts and ensures that projects are aligned with the specific needs of local communities. According to him, the partnership with the Cross River State government has been instrumental in facilitating smooth project implementation.
The oversight visit also provided an opportunity for stakeholders to discuss challenges affecting project delivery, including funding constraints, logistical issues, and the need for sustained maintenance of completed infrastructure. Committee members stressed the importance of addressing these challenges proactively to ensure the durability and effectiveness of development initiatives.
The Niger Delta Development Commission, established to address developmental imbalances in the oil-producing region, has over the years undertaken numerous projects across its mandate states. However, it has also faced criticism over issues such as project abandonment and inefficiencies, making oversight visits such as this a crucial component of accountability.
Analysts note that increased legislative scrutiny, combined with improved coordination between federal and state authorities, could enhance the commission’s performance and restore public confidence in its operations. The emphasis on transparency and measurable impact during the visit reflects a broader push toward more results-driven governance in the region.
For Cross River State, the ongoing projects represent an opportunity to strengthen its infrastructure base and attract investment, particularly as the state seeks to diversify its economy beyond traditional revenue sources. Improved road networks, in particular, are expected to facilitate trade and enhance connectivity between urban and rural areas.
As the oversight exercise continues, the National Assembly committee is expected to compile its findings and make recommendations aimed at improving the efficiency and effectiveness of NDDC operations. These recommendations could influence future policy decisions and funding allocations for development projects in the Niger Delta.
The visit to Calabar underscores the growing importance of collaboration and accountability in addressing the developmental needs of the region. With continued engagement between stakeholders, there is cautious optimism that projects will not only be completed but will also deliver lasting benefits to the communities they are intended to serve.
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