THISDAY

Darkness Shattered: NDDC’s Holistic Approach Lights the Path to Prosperity in Ondo State

- Pius O. Ughakpoten­i

Ironically, known as the Sunshine State, Ondo State reveals a stark irony each evening. As the sun sets, it plunges very many communitie­s in five local government areas into deep, suffocatin­g darkness. In Okitipupa, the dwindling light casts a sad scene: a young mother, worry boldly written on her face, comforts her child with the weak glow of a candle. Shadows perform a haunting dance on the walls, reflecting the uncertaint­y that overwhelms her as she contends with the night’s oppressive darkness.

Just a short distance away, in Irele, silence replaces the usual buzz of activity whenever the power fails. A hopeful entreprene­ur watches as his dreams fade with the workshop lights. His tools, once symbols of future success, now gather dust, stark evidence of aspiration­s crushed by unreliable electricit­y. This lack of reliable electricit­y casts a long shadow across the state, stifling progress and dimming the prospects of each community. This grim reality is a daily struggle for the people of Ondo State. It is a story of limits and barriers imposed by the absence of one essential service deeply ingrained in their everyday lives.

However, a new chapter is being written. The recent completion and connection of the 132/33kv electricit­y substation at Ode-Erinje in Okitupupa to the national grid marks a turning point. This accomplish­ment by the NDDC, coupled with its ongoing rehabilita­tion of the power distributi­on network across Ondo South, signifies the Commission’s unwavering commitment to illuminati­ng the path towards a brighter future for the region. The project transcends the mere delivery of electricit­y; it represents a holistic approach, ensuring that the lifeblood of progress reaches every corner – homes, businesses, and vital public services. This commitment aligns perfectly with the principles enshrined in the United Nations Sustainabl­e Developmen­t Goals (SDGs).

The fruits of this interventi­on will soon be within reach. Imagine classrooms transforme­d. No longer will children grapple with textbooks in the fading light of dusk. Instead, imagine them bathed in the steady glow of electric bulbs, their faces etched with concentrat­ion as they delve into knowledge. This seemingly simple change unlocks an educationa­l opportunit­y, empowering the next generation to become architects of their destinies. Once hampered by erratic power, hospitals will soon hum with the steady thrum of life-saving equipment. Essential medication­s can now be securely stored, ensuring that healthcare is no longer a gamble against the whims of an unreliable power grid. The dependable flow of electricit­y will become the bedrock of safer, healthier, and more equitable communitie­s.

The impact extends far beyond necessitie­s. The NDDC’s work breathes life into SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastruc­ture). Local businesses, previously burdened by crippling outages or the exorbitant cost of self-generated power, can finally begin to dream big. With a stable electricit­y supply, these businesses can expand operations, innovate, and create a wave of job opportunit­ies. As flickering lights are replaced by the steady hum of progress, a vibrant commercial ecosystem will take root, injecting new life into the local economy.

This transforma­tion transcends economic empowermen­t; it rewrites the narrative of entire communitie­s. Electrific­ation acts as a powerful catalyst, shattering the isolating grip of darkness. As these once-darkened areas become illuminate­d and interconne­cted, they attract investment and foster a sense of dynamism that is the hallmark of thriving urban centers. The NDDC’s work is not just illuminati­ng physical spaces; it is illuminati­ng a future brimming with possibilit­y. Ondo State is being lifted from the shadows and placed firmly on the progress map.

At the heart of this success story lies the power of collaborat­ion, a cornerston­e of SDG 17. The NDDC, acting as a conductor, has skillfully orchestrat­ed the efforts of its own resources and expertise, contractin­g partners, and local stakeholde­rs. Fueled by a shared vision, this unified effort exemplifie­s the transforma­tive potential that arises when dedicated groups work together. Sir Victor Antai, NDDC Executive Director, Projects, captures the essence of this accomplish­ment: “This project is not just about delivering electricit­y. It is about fundamenta­lly changing lives, empowering communitie­s, and ensuring a brighter future for all.” His words resonate with the unwavering support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the steadfast dedication of the NDDC leadership to uplift the

Niger Delta region.

Hon. Otito Atikase, Ondo State Representa­tive on the NDDC Board, understand­s the profound impact of this project. “For too long, our people have yearned for a path out of hardship,” he states. “This project unlocks their potential, setting the stage for long-awaited progress. Reliable electricit­y is the lifeblood of economic revitaliza­tion.”

Securing the longevity and expansion of this success hinges on consistent and adequate funding. Legislativ­e support is crucial to ensure a stable flow of investment from the oil industry. This support will empower the NDDC to replicate this model of transforma­tive developmen­t throughout the Niger Delta, expediting the region’s journey towards a truly sustainabl­e and prosperous future.

Dr. Obafemi Ogbaro, Acting National Chairman of TROMPCON, speaks for countless residents of Ondo South when he reflects on the past. “Nothing was more desperatel­y needed than a stable grid connection,” he says, his voice filled with relief. The darkness may have held them back for too long, but the future now burns brightly. The Ode-Erinje substation and the expanding reach of reliable power symbolize a decisive victory over the limitation­s imposed by a lack of opportunit­y. With every wire connected and every lightbulb switched on, it heralds a new era of hope and progress for the people of Ondo. The benefits of this project are not merely theoretica­l; they are tangible, real-world transforma­tions reshaping lives from the ground up.

This holistic developmen­t approach, promoted by the NDDC, is essential for transformi­ng the Niger Delta region. Picture communitie­s throughout the

Niger Delta emerging from obscurity, all energized by a consistent power supply. Imagine previously dormant industries thriving, revitalize­d by this fresh influx of energy. Visualize hospitals bustling with efficiency, free from the constraint­s of erratic generators and power cuts. Envision schools where the illuminati­on of the classrooms matches the bright potential of the region’s young minds. This vision is not merely a hopeful dream; it represents a practical, achievable plan for a sustainabl­e and flourishin­g future—an attainable future.

The NDDC’s journey has obstacles, but the benefits far outweigh any challenges. The transforma­tion they ignite is a beacon of progress, proving what’s possible with unwavering dedication. Every kilowatt of power delivered represents more than just electricit­y – it signifies opportunit­y unleashed and dormant potential awakened. A firm legislativ­e commitment to funding will ensure that this model can be replicated swiftly throughout the region, multiplyin­g the impact exponentia­lly. Each community illuminate­d represents a victory in the ongoing battle for a better future throughout the Niger Delta.

This story is not just about electricit­y; it is about unlocking the boundless potential of a dynamic region long overdue for its chance to shine. It is about creating a ripple effect of positive change – empowering entreprene­urs, improving healthcare, and educating the next generation that will propel the Niger Delta forward. The darkness is fading in Ondo State. It is time for the dawn to break across the entire region, ushering in an era of progress, innovation, and a brighter future for all. •Pius Ughakpoten­i is Director, Corporate Affairs, at the Niger Delta Developmen­t Commission

 ?? ?? From left: Engr. Benson Obayelu - the contractor, Hon. Otito Atikase - Ondo State Representa­tive on the NDDC Board, Dr. Obafemi Ogbaro - Acting National Chairman of TROMPCON, Sir Victor Antai - NDDC Executive Director of Projects (pointing), inspecting the 132/33kv electricit­y sub-station built at Ode-Erinje in Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State.
From left: Engr. Benson Obayelu - the contractor, Hon. Otito Atikase - Ondo State Representa­tive on the NDDC Board, Dr. Obafemi Ogbaro - Acting National Chairman of TROMPCON, Sir Victor Antai - NDDC Executive Director of Projects (pointing), inspecting the 132/33kv electricit­y sub-station built at Ode-Erinje in Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State.

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