By Desmond Ejibas
Port Harcourt – The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) says work on the 1.2-kilometre Kaa-Ataba Bridge project in Rivers has reached an advanced stage and will soon be completed.
The Director, Corporate Affairs, Mrs Seledi Thompson-Wakama, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday in Port Harcourt.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that when completed, the bridge will link coastal communities to the mainland, improve connectivity, and boost economic activities.
Thompson-Wakama said that the project which linked Khana and Andoni Local Government Areas, would open up previously hard-to-reach communities.
According to the statement, the contractor, Jillian Group of Companies, is committed to its speedy and quality delivery.
The firm’s Managing Director, Mr Christian Emeozor, who inspected the project, assured that it would be delivered according to schedule.
Emeozor said the project was strategic to the economic development of Rivers and the Niger Delta region at large.
He said that irregular tidal waves have severely affected the movement of construction materials to the site.
“Adverse weather conditions also posed some challenges, particularly in transporting materials.
“We have to work within limited timed window. These challenges slowed down the process of installing the remaining beams,” he said.
Emeozor said that measures had been put in place to mitigate the impact of the challenges.
“We are deploying more manpower and equipment to accelerate work and make up for lost time.
“Our goal is to deliver the project on schedule without compromising quality,” he added.
The managing director commended the host communities for their cooperation and peaceful conduct, noting that their support has contributed significantly to the progress recorded so far.
He said the bridge when completed would ease transportation, reduce risks associated with river crossings, and facilitate the movement of agricultural produce and goods.
“The bridge will open up economic opportunities and improve access between Kaa and Ataba communities, which are rich in agricultural resources,” he said.
NAN reports that the NDDC Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, recently briefed President Bola Tinubu on the progress of the bridge and other legacy projects of the commission. (NAN)
