In a significant step toward improving infrastructure in Ogoja Local Government Area (LGA), solar-powered street lights have been installed in Basan-Mbube, thanks to the efforts of Chief Orok Otu Duke. The project, facilitated by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), aims to enhance safety and security in the community, bringing much-needed illumination to a previously poorly lit area.
Chief Duke, the Cross River State representative on the NDDC board, played a pivotal role in attracting the intervention. Through his consistent advocacy for developmental projects in the state, the installation of these solar street lights marks a crucial accomplishment in providing basic amenities to underserved communities. Chief Duke emphasized that this project is only a part of broader initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for residents across Cross River State.
Residents of Basan-Mbube have expressed appreciation for the project. Anthony Okwe, a native of the community, shared his joy over the installation but also voiced concerns about the limited number of lights. “I am very happy about the development. It’s a great step forward for us. However, we need more lights to cover other areas in the community. Only a few streets have benefited, and there are still many dark corners,” Okwe said.
In response to such concerns, Chief Duke acknowledged the feedback from the community and assured that more lights could be provided in subsequent phases of the project. He reiterated his commitment to securing more NDDC interventions to address the infrastructural needs of Basan-Mbube and other areas in Cross River. “This is just the beginning. We are in talks to bring further developmental initiatives to light up and modernize more rural communities,” Duke assured.
Beyond the streetlight project, Chief Duke also shared updates on the much-anticipated NDDC internship programme, assuring Cross Riverians of a balanced and transparent selection process. He highlighted that the upcoming list would reflect a fair representation of qualified candidates from the state, especially targeting youths in need of career opportunities and empowerment. “We are committed to ensuring that Cross Riverians are not left behind in the internship programme. It will be an inclusive process,” he noted.
As residents await further developments, the streetlight project is seen as a beacon of hope for the community. The intervention has rekindled optimism that more infrastructural upgrades are on the horizon, driven by leaders like Chief Duke, who continues to push for meaningful progress through strategic partnerships with bodies like the NDDC.
