The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has assured residents of Ibifaka Polo community in Borikiri, Port Harcourt, that compensation for properties affected by the Borikiri-Okrika Bridge project will soon be paid, paving the way for accelerated construction.
Alabo Boma Iyaye, NDDC Executive Director, Finance and Administration, made the announcement during an inspection of the Borikiri alignment of the road and bridge project.
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He acknowledged that the project, originally awarded in 2012, had suffered delays due to administrative changes and funding challenges.
Iyaye stated, “Upon the inauguration of the current NDDC Board, we prioritised completing this legacy project. Last year, contractors were engaged and moved to the site almost immediately.”
The Borikiri-Okrika Bridge will connect Port Harcourt and Okrika Local Government Areas and includes three bridges: Kolabi Bridge (180m), Abotoru Bridge (1,120m), and Okpoka Bridge (490m). While the Okrika end has progressed, work on the Borikiri alignment has lagged due to unresolved compensation issues.
Iyaye confirmed that these issues had now been addressed and work would commence once all modalities are in place.
During a courtesy visit to the Amayanabo of Ancient Borikiri Kingdom, King Berechiri Wilfred Yemaiyaye expressed gratitude to the NDDC for prioritising his community, describing the project as a positive step toward local development.
Project Consultant Engr. Azu Chukwuma highlighted the community’s support, noting that the bridge would bring much-needed socio-economic benefits.
The Youth President of Ibifaka Polo, Mr. Precious Tobin George, also welcomed the announcement, stating, “Once completed, this project will attract development and opportunities to our community.”
The NDDC’s move to expedite compensation signals a renewed commitment to completing the Borikiri-Okrika Bridge as a key infrastructure legacy for the region.
