The Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, has promised that the 21-kilometre Ehime-Nguru–Aba Branch–Mpam–Umuokirika–Ekwereazu Road, which links Imo, Abia, and Rivers states, will be completed in a timely manner.
A press release signed and distributed by Seledi Thompson-Wakama, Director of Corporate Affairs at NDDC, confirmed this information.
During an inspection of a section of the project in the Ahiazu Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo State, Ogbuku expressed his approval of the progress made and noted that the second phase of the project would be awarded shortly.
He referred to the road as essential, stating that the project would enhance connectivity among the three mandate states—Imo, Abia, and Rivers—while traversing four local government areas in Imo State: Ahiazu, Mbaise, Aboh Mbaise, Ezinihitte, Mbaise and Ngor Okpala.
He mentioned that the awarding of the Ahiara–Ngor Okpala section of the road would take place, emphasizing that its completion would boost economic activities and facilitate movement among the affected communities.
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Ogbuku, who was joined during the inspection by Dr. Victor Antai, the Commission’s Executive Director of Projects, expressed gratitude to the residents of Ahiazu Mbaise for their warm welcome and reaffirmed the Commission’s dedication to providing vital infrastructure in alignment with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
On behalf of the Igwe-in-Council and the people of Ahiazu Mbaise and Ehime Mbano, Eze Dr. O. Nwandu, the traditional ruler of Ihitteaforukwu Kingdom, praised the NDDC for what he called a revitalized effort in regional development under the current board and management.
He remarked that the road had been unusable for more than 15 years, representing abandonment and difficulties for communities reliant on it for farming, commerce, and access to crucial services.
“This route is an essential economic and social artery, supporting agricultural endeavors, trade, movement between communities, and access to vital services. This initiative will yield significant advantages across various communities, local government areas, and states,” he stated.
“For many years, this road epitomized neglect and hardship. Today, thanks to visionary leadership and prompt action, hope has been restored.”
