The Niger Delta Development Commission has formally handed over sites for emergency reclamation and shoreline protection projects in Onuebum and Ayakoro communities, located in Ogbia Local Government Area, marking the commencement of work aimed at tackling coastal erosion and safeguarding infrastructure.
At a ceremony held in Ayakoro Community Town Hall, the NDDC Director for Bayelsa State, Engr. Godknows Alamieyeseigha, said the formal handover was necessary to introduce the contractor and reinforce transparency in project execution. He noted that the intervention reflects the Commission’s commitment to improving livelihoods in vulnerable riverine communities.
Alamieyeseigha commended the host communities for their consistent cooperation with the Commission and its partners, urging residents to take ownership of the projects by monitoring progress and reporting any irregularities. He also called for sustained collaboration to ensure timely completion.
Speaking at the event, the NDDC Deputy Director, Community and Rural Development, Mr. Diete Amiefamonyo, highlighted the significance of the handover process in preventing conflicts with other agencies. He explained that the initiative was introduced to foster community participation and eliminate disruptions to project delivery.
He appealed to youth groups, community development committees and women leaders to work collectively in support of the contractor, while also urging the contractor to respect local customs and traditions.
The Project Consultant, Engr. Henry Okolie, said the intervention was critical, noting that shoreline collapse on both sides of the river had posed a threat to land and infrastructure. He explained that the technology being deployed would stabilise the shoreline, reclaim land and protect ongoing road construction in the area.
In his remarks, the Acting Paramount Ruler of Ayakoro, Chief Micah Itesi, assured that both Ayakoro and Onuebum communities would cooperate fully with the contractor to facilitate smooth execution and early delivery of the projects.
The shoreline protection initiative is expected to mitigate erosion, preserve livelihoods and enhance sustainable development in the affected communities.
