The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has distributed over 30 boats across riverine communities in Cross River State to ease the impact of devastating floods that have disrupted livelihoods, particularly in rural areas. The Commissioner representing Cross River State on the NDDC Board, Otuekong Orok Duke, stated that this distribution is part of the Commission’s ongoing efforts to provide relief to those affected.
Speaking to pressmen in Calabar, Duke explained that the boats form part of a larger set of relief materials meant for flood victims, initially scheduled for delivery months ago.
“These boats were intended for dispatch three months ago,” Duke shared. “However, delays in delivery meant that we had to advocate for Cross River’s allocation. We eventually received them about four months back, and while only 30 boats are available, we wanted to ensure they reached the communities in need.”
Duke emphasized that while many communities were affected by the floods, this distribution prioritized riverine areas in the southern parts of the state.
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“We directed the boats to communities such as Esuk Atu, Obufa Esuk Orok, Idang, Anantigha/Jebbs, Esiere Ebom, Duke Town, Volvo Market, and Lemna Beach within Calabar municipality. Additionally, we sent 10 boats to Adiabo and Odukpani for areas including Adiabo and Ikot Offiong Beaches,” he added.
Duke noted that these boats represent only a portion of the palliatives already distributed. He acknowledged the delay in the arrival of cassava processing machines, another form of relief, and expressed hope for their arrival soon.
“This contribution is just a small token from the NDDC, especially timely now as people are actively engaged in campaigns and election preparations,” Duke remarked. “We decided to release these boats now as an interim measure while awaiting the other equipment.”
Addressing questions on whether Cross River State is receiving an equitable share of NDDC projects, Duke responded:
“To secure our fair share, we must first understand what has been achieved and what remains. It’s a work in progress, given the scale of historical neglect. For 2024, our budget is about 1.9 trillion naira, but we’re yet to receive the board-approved one trillion naira loan sanctioned by the president. Until the budget is fully passed, we’re limited to spending up to 50% of the previous year’s budget, mainly for staff salaries and essential expenses.”
He further explained that gathering accurate data to assess the full extent of Cross River’s needs is challenging but essential for future planning.
“As we approach our one-year mark on November 26, we’re pushing for fair representation in NDDC’s future projects. With recent remedial measures, we aim to improve Cross River’s position within NDDC, especially in light of our oil-producing status,” Duke concluded.
The NDDC has recently also distributed streetlights and other resources to communities across the state, with a commitment to transparency and equitable implementation of programmes previously lacking these standards.
