The people of Bodo, Biera, and Bera communities in Gokana Local Government Area of Rivers State were filled with excitement as the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) commissioned solar-powered streetlights in their communities.
During the commissioning, the NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, stated that as part of the commission’s ongoing “Light Up the Niger Delta” project, the installation of streetlights within the Niger Delta region aims to enhance the economic value of communities, reduce criminal activities, and promote a productive nightlife.
Dr. Ogbuku had earlier visited King Festus Babaa Paago Baigia, the Gbenemene of Gokana Kingdom, at his palace to discuss the swift resumption of oil exploration activities in Ogoni land. He appealed to the monarch and his people to allow the Federal Government to negotiate with all stakeholders to achieve this goal.
The Commission’s Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, cuts the tape to commission solar streetlight projects. Second from the right is the NDDC Executive Director of Finance and Administration, Alabo Boma Iyaye, followed by the former APC Acting National Chairman, Hon. Victor Giadom (far right), and Gberedeela VIII Menebom Bodo City, King John Bebor Berebon (left).
He emphasized the need to resume oil operations in the area, highlighting benefits such as employment and industrialization. He urged the Ogoni people to position themselves to reap these benefits, explaining that the wealth beneath the soil would benefit both the Federal Government and the Ogoni communities. He assured them that President Bola Tinubu’s administration is committed to considering their views regarding the return of oil operations to Ogoni land.
Dr. Ogbuku commended President Tinubu for continuing the Ogoni cleanup project and noted that the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) would ensure international oil companies become more accountable to their host communities.
Reflecting on his meeting with Ogoni leaders at Aso Rock last year, Ogbuku expressed that President Tinubu has shown a strong interest in the people’s welfare. He added that the Ogoni communities deserve a fair share of NDDC projects.
During the visit, accompanied by NDDC Executive Director of Finance and Administration, Alabo Boma Iyaye, and South-South Vice Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr. Victor Giadom, Dr. Ogbuku announced plans to extend similar projects to more communities in the Niger Delta region.
King Festus Babaa Baigia, the Gbenemene of Gokana Kingdom and Chairman of the Gokana Council of Traditional Rulers, affirmed the Ogoni people’s support for the Tinubu administration. He also praised the appointment of Dr. Ogbuku, describing him as a leader who has demonstrated exceptional capability.
The king acknowledged the benefits of the streetlights, noting improvements in security and commerce, which have led to thriving commercial activities at night. He called on the Federal Government to implement more developmental projects in Ogoni and pledged the community’s commitment to safeguarding government facilities in the area.
