Oginibo community applauds NDDC for swift approval of solar streetlight project
Residents of Oginibo Community in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta have praised the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for its rapid approval of a solar-powered streetlight project designed to improve security and stimulate local economic activities.
In a statement released on Monday, community leaders described the intervention as “timely, impactful, and highly commendable,” emphasising the significance of the development for residents who have long struggled with inadequate lighting.
The statement revealed that the community had formally petitioned the NDDC on February 9, 2026, requesting the installation of 985 solar-powered streetlights to tackle the challenges posed by prolonged darkness, which had heightened security risks and hampered social and commercial activities.
The letter, jointly signed by the President-General, Mr. Israel Orioborue Opheghe, and the Secretary-General, Mr. Tisha Ejekanshe Matthew, highlighted the absence of functional streetlights in Oginibo for several years.
The correspondence noted that the lack of adequate lighting had restricted night-time movement, exposed residents to criminal activities, and negatively affected local businesses.
Expressing delight at the Commission’s prompt response, the community stated that within less than a month of submitting their request, the NDDC not only approved the project but also awarded the contract.
The statement described this development as “remarkable,” reflecting a more responsive and results-driven Commission.
The project entails the emergency installation of solar-powered streetlights throughout Oginibo and neighboring areas at a total cost of N298 million, inclusive of Value Added Tax (VAT).
Community leaders emphasised that the Commission’s swift action underscores a renewed commitment to addressing the developmental needs of Niger Delta communities.
“This uncommon promptness is a clear testament to the emergence of a result-oriented Commission committed to meeting the needs of the people,” the statement read.
The community also commended the Managing Director of the NDDC, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, for repositioning the agency as a proactive and accountable institution focused on delivering tangible results.
Residents expressed optimism that the streetlight installation would significantly enhance security, facilitate safer night-time movement—particularly for vulnerable groups—and stimulate economic and social activities in the area.
In addition, the statement acknowledged the efforts of the Delta State Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Mr Reuben Izeze, for facilitating dialogue between the community and the NDDC.
Reaffirming their readiness to support the project’s implementation, Oginibo Community pledged continued cooperation with the Commission to ensure the successful execution and long-term sustainability of the initiative.
The community also noted that the intervention aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, expressing appreciation for the initiative while reiterating support for both the President and Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori.
Speaking on behalf of residents, the President-General, Mr. Opheghe Orioborue Israel, described the approval as “a timely and impactful intervention that reflects a new dawn in the operations of the NDDC,” adding that the community remains committed to backing initiatives that promote development and security.
The statement expressed heartfelt gratitude to the NDDC for restoring public confidence in its mandate through what was described as a people-oriented and responsive initiative.
