Calabar— The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has delivered over 30 boats to various riverine communities across Cross River State. This initiative, led by Otuekong Orok Duke, the NDDC Commissioner representing Cross River State, aims to mitigate the impact of recent floods that have severely disrupted the livelihoods of residents, particularly those in rural areas NEGROIDHAVEN can say.
Addressing journalists in Calabar, the state capital, Duke explained that the boats are part of a broader relief effort by the NDDC to provide essential support to those displaced by the flooding.
“These boats were supposed to be distributed three months ago but were delayed,” Duke noted. “I insisted on securing Cross River’s allocation, which we have now received, though they are only thirty. While these boats are not enough to cover all the affected communities, they are a start. We’re still waiting on the arrival of cassava processing machines as part of this relief package, but in the meantime, it’s essential to get these boats to beneficiaries.”
Distribution to Southern Riverine Communities
Duke revealed that the boats have primarily been allocated to communities in the southern part of the state. Some of the benefiting areas include Esuk Atu, Obufa Esuk Orok, Idang, Anantigha/Jebbs, Esiere Ebom, Duke Town, Volvo Market, and Lemna Beach within the Calabar municipality. Additionally, ten boats have been sent to Adiabo and Odukpani to support communities at Adiabo and Ikot Offiong Beaches.
“This is a small gesture from the NDDC as part of our ongoing palliative efforts. We thought it timely to distribute them now, especially as people are actively engaged in election campaigns and community events,” he said.
A Work in Progress for Cross River’s Fair Share
In response to inquiries regarding Cross River State’s share of NDDC projects, Duke emphasized that much work remains to assess and address the extensive infrastructure gaps in the region.
“For Cross River to receive its fair share, we need to fully understand what has been done and what remains to be addressed,” Duke stated. “The current budget for this year is approximately 1.9 trillion, but the board has yet to approve a loan of 1 trillion, which the president endorsed. While awaiting budget approval, we’ve operated with up to 50% of last year’s budget for essential expenses such as staff salaries. It’s an ongoing process to evaluate the needs of Cross River.”
He added that securing data on the state’s needs has encountered resistance, but he is hopeful that the one-year mark of their administration, on November 26, will provide a foundation to request additional resources for Cross River. Duke is optimistic that ongoing remedial measures related to oil well revenues will improve the state’s standing within the NDDC.
Transparent and Equitable Development
The NDDC has recently implemented additional development projects, including the distribution of streetlights and various community incentives. These initiatives are part of an effort by the commission to ensure transparent, diligent, and equitable distribution of resources, contrasting with past practices where projects were often executed without full adherence to due process.
With ongoing efforts to address the damage caused by years of neglect, the NDDC, led by Otuekong Orok Duke, is striving to make meaningful contributions toward the recovery and advancement of Cross River State.
