The Minister of Environment, Mrs. Hadiza Ibrahim Mailafa has commended the Niger Delta Development Commission for taken steps to preserve the environment in its projects implementation drive.

The Minster, who was represented by the Zonal Director, Federal Ministry Of Environment, Delta State, Mr. Emeka Onyetenu made the commendation at a two day Stakeholders Open Forum on the proposed Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) on the construction of Agbarho and Ozoro township roads in Warri, Delta state.

“I thank NDDC for this interactive forum, it shows that the commission is ready to develop the Niger delta region with durable projects that conform to the environmental standard,” she said.

He stressed the need for cooperation between the communities particularly the chiefs and the youths, saying that the success of the projects is dependent on their understanding.

The Executive Director Projects, NDDC, Engr Edikan Eshett, who was represented by the Assistant Director, Environmental Protection and Control, Mr. Luke Ibanga stated that the forum was to introduce the projects to the communities and have their contributions, views and concerns.

The Executive Director said comprehensive environmental management plan is done to help the benefitting communities improve their standard of living. According to him, the commission has engaged reputable consultants for the projects to design both the scope and the project implementation process.

Speaking on behalf of the projects consultants, Professor Anthony Ogbeibu explained that the purpose of the EIA was to ensure that construction and utilization were carried out in an environmentally friendly manner.

He stated that the EIA covers both legal and administrative framework of the projects description and methodology for baseline data. Professor Ogbeibu disclosed that the Ozoro township road is 28.19km while the Agbarho township road is 23km with a 20m span bridge.
Responding on behalf of the communities, Chief Capt Andrews Ogume Rtd commended the NDDC for the EIA and for giving them opportunity to take part in the interactive forum with other stakeholders.