Residents of Lovers Road and Goshen Estate in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Rivers State, are celebrating a long-overdue transformation as the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) flags off a 1.4-kilometer road rehabilitation and solar lighting project—ending nearly three decades of infrastructural neglect.
The project was officially handed over to Westpac Engineering Group on Monday during a site ceremony that drew stakeholders, residents, and NDDC representatives.
In an emotionally charged address, Mr. Livinus Mbakogu, Chairman of Lovers Unity Road, described the moment as a turning point.
“This is a day of great significance for us,” he said. “This project is more than just a road and streetlight; it is a path to better health, easier education, business growth and greater community connection.”
The new development comes after 29 years of poor road conditions that have stifled economic activity and endangered residents, especially during the rainy season.
Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, Managing Director of the NDDC, was lauded for his leadership and approval of the intervention. Community representative and immediate past chairman, Mr. Aleruchi Chukwu, expressed gratitude after years of failed attempts.
“We have confidence in NDDC. We are sure they will do it,” Chukwu said. “We pray God makes funds available for the contractor… we’ll give all necessary support.”
The contractor, Mr. Abiye Abhili, General Manager of Westpac Engineering, promised speedy and quality delivery.
“We have a full team here to ensure rapid delivery. Our timeline is 90 days, and we aim to finish in record time,” he stated.
Representing the NDDC, Mrs. Adagogo Rita Brown emphasized the importance of community collaboration.
“Appreciation for projects, no matter how small, encourages more initiatives,” she said, cautioning that negativity could discourage future efforts.
Residents shared personal testimonies about the hardship caused by the failed road, including Blessing, a local hairstylist.
“We have suffered too much. The rain and bad road make life hard. We appreciate NDDC for remembering us,” she said.
With construction set to begin immediately, the community is optimistic that this long-awaited intervention marks the beginning of a brighter, more connected future.
