The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has assured residents of Ibifaka Polo community in Borikiri, Port Harcourt, of the imminent payment of compensation to those whose properties are on the right-of-way for the Borikiri-Okrika Bridge Project.

The NDDC Executive Director, Finance and Administration, Alabo Boma Iyaye made this known in the community during the inspection of the Borikiri alignment of the road and bridge project.

He noted: “As a delegation from the NDDC, we have come to properly inspect the ongoing Borikiri-Okrika Road and bridges. This project has suffered delays because of frequent changes in administration and funding challenges.

Iyaye said: “Although this project was awarded in 2012, it has faced delays for various reasons. Upon the inauguration of the current NDDC Board, we prioritised completing this significant project, viewing it as a legacy project.

“By the grace of God and the goodwill of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, our administration was inaugurated, and this is one of the legacy projects we identified to be completed. Last year, we engaged the contractors who moved to the site almost immediately.”

The Borikiri-Okrika Bridge, which would link Port Harcourt and Okrika Local Government Areas in Rivers State, consists of three bridges: the Kolabi Bridge (180m) at the Etche Waterfront, the Abotoru Bridge (1120m), which is midway, and the Okpoka Bridge (490m).

The NDDC Executive Director further noted that although the Okrika alignment has made considerable progress, the Borikiri end was delayed.

He stated: “The Borikiri alignment has not made substantial progress. That is why we are here. We have interfaced with the consultant and the contractors, who have identified the paramount issue of compensation. This issue will be addressed and treated with immediate effect. Inspections have been done. Be rest assured that work will start from this end once all modalities are in place.”

Earlier in a courtesy visit at the palace of the Amayanabo of Ancient Borikiri Kingdom, King Berechiri Wilfred Yemaiyaye, thanked the Board and Management of the NDDC for the welcome development to his kingdom. “We thank the NDDC for remembering us, and we hope that more development efforts will accompany this.”

The Project Consultant, Engr. Azu Chukwuma noted that the project had received optimum support and acceptance from the community, “This will bring the desired development these communities require,” he stated.

In his own remarks, the Youth President of Ibifaka Polo, Mr. Precious Tobin George, thanked the NDDC for this long-awaited development. “We are certain that once this project is completed, it will attract socio-economic development to our community,” he stated.

•PHOTO: NDDC Executive Director Finance and Administration, Alabo Boma Iyaye, speaking during a courtesy visit at the palace of the Amayanabo of Ancient Borikiri Kingdom, King Berechiri Wilfred Yemaiyaye