Leaders of riverine communities in Ondo State expressed concern over the numerous unfinished projects by the Niger Delta Development Commission within the state.
They pledged to work closely with government and related agencies to oversee and ensure the completion of all NDDC projects in the region.
This commitment was made during a workshop in Akure, the state capital, focused on “Capacity building on emerging trends in rural governance,” organized by the NDDC in the Igbokoda headquarters of the Ilaje Local Government Area.
The monarch of Igbekebo Kingdom, representing traditional rulers of Oil Mineral Producing Communities of Niger Delta, emphasized the importance of preventing project abandonment for the prosperity of community residents.
He lamented the abandonment of NDDC projects in various communities due to lack of supervision, leading to a loss of trust in government and its agencies among residents.
He called on the NDDC to involve traditional rulers in oil-producing areas for improved relationships and urged the urgent completion of projects like the Sabomi-Igbotu road.
At the workshop, an NDDC representative highlighted the need for better collaboration between community stakeholders and the commission to enhance development initiatives and support residents.
He reassured the community of the NDDC’s commitment to executing empowerment programs and infrastructure projects for the benefit of affected areas.