Deputy Governor of Rivers State, Professor Ngozi Odu, has described the commissioning of multiple projects in the Obagi Host Communities Development Trust (HCDT) as unprecedented in the history of the area. Speaking at the ceremony in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area, Odu said the event demonstrated the strength of synergy between the federal government, state authorities, host communities and corporate partners such as TotalEnergies.
Among the projects unveiled was a 10-unit toilet facility constructed with a foundation depth of 1.2 meters, a beam size of 225mm by 200mm and supported by 54 columns. The HCDT also delivered a 260-meter road pavement in Oroad Community built with a sub-base depth of 300mm, a 150mm base course and a 25mm wearing course. In addition, a 320-meter reinforced concrete pavement at SDA Road Community was completed, featuring a 200mm well-compacted base course and a 150mm reinforced concrete wearing course.
The Deputy Governor noted that such infrastructure upgrades would enhance sanitation, mobility and general development across the benefiting communities. She thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that it was during his tenure that the Petroleum Industry Act was fully activated, which paved the way for host communities development trusts like the one in Obagi to function effectively. She also commended the National Assembly for passing the policy framework that ensures oil-producing communities now directly benefit from petroleum resources. According to her, unlike in the past when funds were sent to communities without visible impact, the Obagi HCDT has demonstrated unprecedented accountability and delivery.
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Rivers Deputy Governor Hails Obagi Host Communities Development Projects
Odu praised the leadership of the HCDT, led by its chairman Hopson, for his focus and sacrifices in steering the board towards success. She equally acknowledged the Managing Director of TotalEnergies, Mr. Matthew, for supporting the initiative, stressing that the event was a testimony of partnership between government, the oil industry and host communities.
The Deputy Governor urged the people to take ownership of the projects, safeguard them and ensure they serve generations to come. “I can vouch for the Egi people. I know they will protect these facilities. Our youths and Community Development Committees must show good example by maintaining these projects. That is the only way we can say thank you,” she stated.
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She explained that commissioning over ten projects and flagging off more within a single day was unprecedented, stressing that such achievements are only possible when stakeholders work in unity. She encouraged that the synergy already established must not only be sustained but expanded for greater impact.
In an emotional reflection, Odu pointed out that as an indigene of Egi whose village is close to the Obagi Gas Plant, she felt honored to witness such transformative development in her home area. “For me, it is an amazing thing to be alive to witness this. I am proud to be from this community, and I thank God for this privilege,” she said, drawing applause from the audience.
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The Deputy Governor also called on the ONELGA Local Government Chairman and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly to support community-driven initiatives that reflect the positive changes in Obagi. She expressed optimism that with continued collaboration, greater development would unfold across Rivers State.
The commissioning ended with excitement from residents who hailed the projects as life-changing. Professor Odu assured them that the present administration remains committed to equitable development. “This is just the beginning of greater things to come. God bless us all,” she concluded.
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