Natives Hail NDDC Over Kaa-Ataba Bridge Construction

Edith CHUKU

Excitement has trailed the resumption of construction work at the Kaa-Ataba road and bridges, which started in 2009.

The completion of this project is paramount as it would link the Khana Local Government Area to the Andoni Local Government Area of Rivers State.

Natives and residents have commended the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, for undertaking the project which they described as impactful.

In a statement by the NDDC Director, Corporate Affairs, Mr Seledi Thompson-Wakama, the project’s Community Liaison Officer, Mr. Backpo Godspower, hailed the Commission for its intervention and appealed for the project’s speedy completion.

Backpo remarked that, “the NDDC has done well by resuming work on the bridge, but we want them to complete it so that the connection between the communities separated by the river will be seamless.

“If the bridge is completed, it will increase socioeconomic activities in the area.

“The project will open up the communities in the area, reduce accidents associated with crossing the river, and boost socio-economic activities.

“The 2-kilometre double lane single carriageway with two bridges will improve the quality of life of the people of Kaa and Ataba, as well as help transport farm produce, goods and properties from this rich agricultural area. More importantly, it will reduce accidents and security breaches associated with water transport.”

Also, a community leader in Kaa, Deacon Bassey Lezua, expressed delight that the project, which was stalled for some years and appeared neglected, had been revived.

According to him, “the contractor has returned to the site, and we will give them all the cooperation they need to complete the project.” He said that some communities, like Oyorokoto, one of the region’s largest fishing ports, were important growth centres.”

Further, a businesswoman in the Kaa community, Mrs Zorbari Pimnee, urged the NDDC to ensure that the contractor did not falter on the project again, noting that businesses in the area could only thrive if the road was completed.

The Project Supervisor, Mr. Lawrence Ekanem described the multi-billion-naira project as ambitious and impactful.

He said the road and bridges would enhance socio-economic activities in Kaa, Ataba and surrounding communities.

He assured that his company would do all it took to ensure the project’s early completion.

“We are committed to delivering on speed and quality.”