Anambra Governor, Chief Willie Obiano, has taken steps for the inclusion of the state among the oil producing states of the federation as well as the Niger Delta Development Commission (NNDC). He yesterday expressed optimism that Anambra would soon become a beneficiary of all the compensations of an oil-bearing state

Chief Obiano spoke while flagging off the construction of a bridge across Omambala River and a 12-kilometre access road linking Umueje in Ayamelum local government area to the Oil Rig belonging to Orient Petroleum Plc at Aguleri Otuin Anambra East LGA, awarded to Estrada Construction Company at the cost of N5 billion.

He described oil and gas as one of the major pillars of his development strategy for Anambra State, describing the oil rig as an important component of his administration’s plan to force a development agenda into place in the state.

The governor disclosed that the production capacity of the rig would increase from the present 1,000 barrels a day to 6,000 barrels a day within the next six months following the planned activation of four more oil wells.

He explained that the road is of strategic importance as it is the first direct access route from the state to the Orient Oil rig and traverses many food producing communities, saying that when completed the road would enhance activities at the oil rig and pave way for easy evacuation of agricultural produce.

Governor Obiano assured that more roads would be constructed in the area and that the security network had been strengthened further urging the people to protect government facilities from vandals prowling the area.

In his speech, the Commissioner for Works, Sir Callistus Ilozumba, revealed that the bridge project alone would gulp N2 billion from the contract sum, assuring that on-going massive infrastructural development would open up Ayamelum LGA.

In his address, the Chairman of Ayamelum Local Government Council, Mr. Paul Obiorah, said the agricultural programme would unlock the huge potentials of the area. He thanked the governor for identifying with the community.

Also speaking, the President-General, Umueje Town Union, Mr. Joseph Emegini, noted that this is the first time such a project is being executed in the area and assured that they will protect all government investments in the area.

•Photo shows Engr. Emeka Nwoka, Managing Director, Orient Petroleum Plc, Governor Willie Obiano, and Arc. Callistus Ilozumba, Commissioner for Works, yesterday at the flag-off of the construction of Omambala Bridge in Umueje, Ayamelum LGA.

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