The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has commenced an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and stakeholder engagement exercise in Delta State, marking a crucial step toward the delivery of major road infrastructure in the region.
The initiative, which focuses on the design and construction of new road networks, is expected to improve internal connectivity across rural and semi-urban communities, particularly in Orogun, Owhelogbo, Ozoro, Agbarho-Ughelli, Abbi, Imotje, and Kokori.
According to NDDC officials, the exercise is designed not only to evaluate the environmental implications of the proposed projects but also to ensure that community voices are heard in shaping development plans.
Stakeholders—including traditional rulers, youth leaders, women groups, and local government representatives—participated in the forum to share concerns and expectations on how the roads would impact livelihoods and the environment.
Speaking during the engagement, project coordinators explained that the roads, once completed, will ease transportation, reduce travel time, and enhance access to healthcare, schools, and markets.
They noted that improved road connectivity would also stimulate socio-economic growth by boosting trade, agricultural distribution, and investment opportunities across the beneficiary communities.
Community leaders expressed optimism that the planned projects would tackle long-standing challenges of poor accessibility, which has hampered development in many rural areas of Delta State.
They, however, urged the NDDC to prioritize transparency and quality delivery to ensure that the initiative brings sustainable benefits.
The EIA process will continue in phases, after which contractors will move to site for actual construction.
The NDDC assured stakeholders that the road projects align with its broader mandate to drive infrastructural renewal and economic empowerment in the Niger Delta.
Read also: Delta State Assembly Public Accounts Committee Probes Council Expenditures
