The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has officially commenced the construction of the long-abandoned 3.3-kilometre Iyalu–Iberenta–Ọrọ-Ibere Autonomous Community road in Ikwuano Local Government Area of Abia State.
The project also includes remedial works at two major gully erosion sites in Iyalu and Iberenta, aimed at curbing years of environmental degradation that have threatened farmlands and livelihoods in the area.
Speaking at the flag-off in Iberenta, the NDDC Commissioner representing Abia State, Chief Eruba Dimgba, assured residents that the intervention would not be abandoned midway. He emphasized that under the administration of President Bola Tinubu, the Commission has enjoyed consistent support and funding, enabling it to deliver on its mandate.
Chief Dimgba urged community members to cooperate with the contractor and to promptly report any substandard work to the NDDC’s Abia office in Ukwa West for action. He also commended President Tinubu and the National Assembly for strengthening the Commission’s capacity to execute development projects across the region.
The contractor, Sir Ako Obioma, CEO of Worldwide Environmental Technology Ltd. and founder of the Akubaraoha Foundation, disclosed that full-scale work on the 3.3km road will begin in mid-October. He pledged to deliver a durable project and appealed for the cooperation of residents.
Traditional ruler of Ọrọ-Ibere, Eze Dr. Stanley Ijenwa, alongside leaders of the Ọrọ-Ibere National Development Union and Iberenta Development Union, described the community as the “food basket of Abia State.” They explained that poor road access and gully erosion have long hindered farming and transportation, but expressed optimism that the project would bring lasting relief.
Women and youth representatives of the community, including Mrs. Ann Ogbuehi, Mrs. Fortune Emeh, and Youth President Engr. Don Onyegbula, also hailed the intervention. They said the road had been a nightmare for farmers conveying produce to markets, and prayed for the success of the NDDC’s efforts.
The Ikwuano road project is expected to improve access, boost agricultural trade, and enhance the quality of life for residents of Iyalu, Iberenta, and Ọrọ-Ibere.NDDC Begins Construction of Ikwuano Community Road
