Egbema Youth Council (EYC), has called on the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to fast-track the internal administrative processes necessary to commence the construction of abandoned Udo-Ofunama road project.

The statement was issued on Friday and signed by Barr. Amatelemowei A. Sode, President, Mr. Erin-Ebimi Gift General Secretary and Mr. Famous Ugure, Public Relations Officer.

The council emphasized that communities depending on Udo-Ofunama road have been crying for completion of the project without further delay.

“ For many communities in Egbema Kingdom, the Udo-Ofunama Road is not merely a transportation route but a pathway to economic survival and regional development as the road connects several communities and serves as a critical access corridor for residents who rely on land transportation for commerce, education, and healthcare. Farmers transporting agricultural produce, traders moving goods to markets, and students traveling to schools all depend heavily on the accessibility of this road”

Adding that the current bad condition of the route has made transportation extremely difficult for residents, especially in rainy season, large sections of the road become flooded or muddy, making it nearly impossible for vehicles to pass through.

“ Motorcyclists, who often provide the only available means of transportation in rural areas, struggle to navigate the deteriorating road conditions. In the dry season, the road becomes dusty and riddled with potholes, slowing down movement and increasing transportation costs for residents and traders alike”

“ The Niger Delta Development Commission was established to address the infrastructural challenges faced by oil-producing communities across the Niger Delta region. This is why we have repeatedly emphasized on completion of abandoned Udo-Ofunama road, that tends to significantly improve economic activities and social mobility across the area”

“ The road project represents a major step toward bridging the infrastructural gap that has historically affected the Niger Delta. We have consistently maintained a proactive approach toward advocating development projects that benefit the people of Egbema Kingdom”.

According to the statement, “ The council prioritized peaceful engagement with government institutions, development agencies, and other relevant stakeholders. Infrastructure development remains one of the most effective tools for transforming rural communities”