The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has assured residents of Ibifaka Polo community in Borikiri, Port Harcourt, of the prompt payment of compensation to property owners affected by the right-of-way for the Borikiri–Okrika Bridge Project, in a move aimed at fast-tracking construction work. This assurance was given by the Executive Director, Finance and Administration, Alabo Boma Iyaye, during an inspection of the Borikiri alignment of the project.
Iyaye explained that the project, which was awarded in 2012, had experienced prolonged delays due to changes in administration and funding constraints. He stated that the current NDDC Board has prioritised the completion of the Borikiri–Okrika Bridge as a legacy project, noting that following the inauguration of the board under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, contractors were re-engaged and returned to site almost immediately. While acknowledging substantial progress on the Okrika alignment, Iyaye said work on the Borikiri end lagged behind due to unresolved compensation issues, which the commission has now resolved to address as a matter of urgency.
The Borikiri–Okrika Bridge Project is expected to provide a vital link between Port Harcourt and Okrika Local Government Areas of Rivers State. It comprises three bridges: the 180-metre Kolabi Bridge at the Etche Waterfront, the 1,120-metre Abotoru Bridge at the midsection, and the 490-metre Okpoka Bridge. Iyaye assured community members that once compensation payments are concluded and other modalities finalised, construction work would commence immediately on the Borikiri axis.
Earlier, during a courtesy visit to the palace of the Amayanabo of Ancient Borikiri Kingdom, King Berechiri Wilfred Yemaiyaye, the monarch commended the NDDC Board and Management for the renewed commitment to the project, describing it as a welcome development for his kingdom. The Project Consultant, Engr. Azu Chukwuma, noted that the project has enjoyed strong acceptance and support from host communities, adding that it would deliver the much-needed development the area requires.
The NDDC Executive Director Finance and Administration, Alabo Boma Iyaye (middle)inspecting the Borikiri-Okrika Road and bridge project linking Port Harcourt and Okrika in Rivers State. With him are the consultant, Engr. Azu Chukwuma (left) and the Contractor, Elmask E (right).2.The NDDC Executive Director Finance and Administration, Alabo Boma Iyaye (middle) speaking during a courtesy visit at the palace of the Amayanabo of Ancient Borikiri Kingdom, King Berechiri Wilfred Yemaiyaye (left
In his remarks, the Youth President of Ibifaka Polo community, Mr. Precious Tobin George, expressed appreciation to the NDDC for reviving the long-awaited project, saying its completion would attract significant socio-economic development to the community.
The development was contained in a statement signed by Seledi Thompson-Wakama, Director, Corporate Affairs, NDDC, who reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to completing the Borikiri–Okrika Bridge Project in the interest of regional connectivity and economic growth.
