By Ebi Kesiena
A Traditional Ruler in Bayelsa State, King David Amakiri, has applauded the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for executing many development projects in communities across the oil-rich region.
The monarch, elevated as the Obanobhan of Emeyal Clan, gave the commendation when the NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, led a delegation from the Commission to pay him a courtesy visit at his palace in Oruma, Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.
Ogbuku was accompanied on the visit by the Bayelsa State representative on the NDDC Board, Senator Denyanbofa Dimaro and other Directors of the Commission, as contained in a statement by NDDC Director, Corporate Affairs, Seledi Thompson-Wakama on Sunday.
King Amakiri acknowledged the contributions of the NDDC to the growth of the community, in particular and the local government area at large. He thanked the NDDC for the various interventions that had improved his people’s lives and livelihoods.
The king praised the NDDC for constructing the Oruma rigid pavement Road and other internal roads in his community, stating that his people had faced many challenges in infrastructure before the Commission’s intervention.
The monarch declared: “Our people are anxious to see more development projects. We have played our own role by ensuring that there is peace in the Niger Delta region. Having provided a peaceful environment, there should be no excuse for not developing our region.”
Speaking earlier, the NDDC Managing Director said that the Commission considered it necessary to visit the royal father to congratulate him on his recognition as the Obanobhan of Emeyal Clan in Ogbia Local Government Area.
Ogbuku acknowledged the importance of the traditional institution, noting: “We recognise the importance of the traditional rulers in ensuring peace and stability in the various communities in the Niger Delta region.”
He urged the monarch to ensure peace in his domain, stating, “We need peace for the speedy execution of development projects.”
The NDDC boss said the Commission had mobilised contractors to channel the Kolo Creek, connecting the Okarki-Otuogidi-Ogbia communities of Rivers and Bayelsa states.
He explained that the channelisation project would remove all the blockages causing flooding in the communities in both states, adding that the project would not only check flooding but also reduce the threat of cholera and other health challenges associated with waterborne diseases.
