The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) earmarked a substantial N1.911 trillion in its 2024 budget, focusing on the completion of 1,006 legacy projects across the Niger Delta region. The ambitious budget was approved by the National Assembly, a decision credited to the NDDC’s recent strides in driving development in the region.
In a statement released by the NDDC’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Seledi Thomson-Wakama, the commission highlighted its commitment to infrastructure development as a key factor in securing the approval for the budget. The NDDC pointed to the completion of five major legacy projects as evidence of the commission’s positive impact in the region. These projects are part of 92 infrastructure initiatives completed at a cost of N84 billion across the nine states of the Niger Delta.
“These projects are tangible results of our efforts to accelerate development in the region. The completed projects stand as a testament to our dedication to improving infrastructure and uplifting the lives of the people in the Niger Delta,” the statement said.
The NDDC’s 2024 budget is anchored on the theme “Budget of Renewed Hope,” aligning with the Federal Government’s broader budget objectives. This theme reflects a shift in the commission’s approach, aiming to transition from transactional operations to transformative projects that will have a lasting impact on the region’s development.
The commission explained that the 2024 budget was shaped through a participatory process involving key stakeholders from the Niger Delta. This approach ensures that the projects reflect the region’s most pressing needs and will create long-term benefits for local communities.
One of the standout features of the 2024 budget is a plan to raise N1 trillion from commercial and development banks to fund the 1,006 legacy projects. The NDDC described this funding strategy as pragmatic and focused on high-priority initiatives, including roads, bridges, electricity, schools, hospitals, and shore protection projects.
Among the key projects highlighted in the budget are the Obehie-Azumini-Etim Ekpo Road, which will connect Abia and Akwa Ibom states with an investment of N39.8 billion. Another significant project is the Iko-Atabrikang-Akat-Opolom-Ikot Iwang-Okot Utip-Iwuo Achang Road, which includes a 70-meter bridge valued at N18.9 billion. The Oron Power Station in Akwa Ibom, involving a 58km, 123Kv transmission line, is another notable project, with a budget of N48.1 billion.
Additional projects include the Otuogori-Otuegwe Bridge in Bayelsa State (N29 billion), the Ogheye-Koko-Escravos Road, Phase II in Delta State (N26 billion), and the Uzere-Patani Road in Delta State (N17 billion). In Edo State, the NDDC will invest N31.9 billion in the Okpella-North Ihie-Agerebode Road, Phase II, while in Ondo State, N70 billion is allocated for the Ugbo-Oghoye Road, Phase I, in Ilaje Local Government Area. In Rivers State, the Ahoada-Abua-Degema Road and Bridges project is valued at N27 billion.
These projects aim to address critical infrastructure gaps in the region, particularly in transportation, power, and social services. The NDDC believes that by completing these legacy projects, the commission will drive economic growth, create jobs, and improve the standard of living for communities throughout the Niger Delta.
The NDDC also emphasized that the 2024 budget represents a comprehensive development plan that is aligned with the Federal Government’s long-term vision for Nigeria. By focusing on legacy projects, the commission hopes to ensure sustainable growth and development in the region for years to come.
With these ambitious plans in place, the NDDC is positioning itself to play a central role in transforming the Niger Delta into a hub of infrastructure and economic prosperity. The commission remains committed to improving the quality of life for the people in the region through strategic investments and collaboration with key stakeholders.
