Ndoshimili Union raises alarm over erosion in Delta communities

Coastal communities in Delta State, Nigeria, face an existential threat from aggressive shoreline erosion, the Ndoshimili Development Union (NDU) has warned. The apex socio-cultural body for Ndokwa East Local Government Area (NELGA) stated that Abala-Oshimili and Onyah are particularly vulnerable and could be submerged within a few years if immediate protective measures are not implemented.

The NDU issued this warning following its maiden virtual consultative town hall meeting. The union also expressed deep concern over the stark infrastructure deficit plaguing the local government area. This is despite NELGA hosting a significant concentration of oil and gas assets, contributing substantially to the Niger Delta's crude oil output. The Okpai Independent Power Plant alone generates over 480 megawatts for the national grid, yet many host communities lack basic amenities like electricity, motorable roads, and functional healthcare and educational facilities.

While commending the state government for the ongoing 10.8-kilometer Aboh-Akarai road project, the NDU urged swift action on numerous other critical infrastructure needs. These include the long-delayed Asaba-Aboh-Onyah-Patani Coastal Trunk Road, initially approved in 1978, and several vital bridges and connecting roads. The union also lamented the marginalization of Ndokwa East within the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and the lack of tangible benefits from the three percent Host Community Development Trust Fund under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).

The NDU implored the Delta State and Federal Governments to prioritize Ndokwa East in budgetary allocations for infrastructure, disaster mitigation, and social services. They also demanded equitable representation in federal and state appointments and the full, transparent implementation of the PIA's three percent Host Community Development Fund for eligible communities.

“

NELGA hosts one of Nigeria’s highest concentrations of oil and gas assets, contributing significantly to total Niger Delta crude oil output.