KWALE/Nigeria: The Umuseti community in Ndokwa West Local Government Area has lauded Mr John IK Ozegbe for facilitating the siting of eight solar-powered water facilities across key communities, describing the intervention as a transformative step towards addressing persistent water challenges in the area.
The commendation came during an inspection tour by officials of the Federal Ministry of Water Resources, Abuja, alongside the project contractor and Mr Ozegbe, as stakeholders assessed the readiness of designated sites and the scope of the intervention.
The water projects, located across Ward 3 and Ward 4, are set to benefit Olieogo Umuseti, Ukpabi, Utagba Uno, Ologwu Isumpe, and Akakpani Umuseti, with residents expressing optimism that the initiative would significantly improve access to clean and sustainable water.
During the inspection, the delegation moved round the selected locations to verify their suitability, with enthusiastic residents, youth groups, and Community Development Committee (CDC) members turning out in large numbers to receive the team.
Stakeholders across the benefiting communities described the intervention as timely, noting that access to potable water would ease the daily burden faced by residents, improve hygiene, and enhance public health outcomes.
Mr Ozegbe, a former Chief Legislative Officer, was widely commended for his sustained role in attracting development projects to Ndokwa West, with community leaders recalling several initiatives linked to his efforts over the years.
They noted that projects executed in Utagba Uno and neighbouring communities during previous administrations remain visible evidence of his commitment to grassroots development.
Observers also pointed to his familiarity with legislative processes, budgetary frameworks, and stakeholder engagement, describing these attributes as instrumental in driving development-oriented initiatives within the constituency.
While acknowledging growing speculations linking him to the 2027 Delta State House of Assembly race for Ndokwa West Constituency, community leaders insisted that the ongoing water projects are not politically motivated.
According to them, the intervention reflects a consistent track record of service and commitment to community welfare rather than electoral considerations.
They, however, maintained that his experience in project facilitation and governance processes could prove beneficial if entrusted with public office in the future.
Also speaking, the Coordinator of Umu Ezeti Global Connect Initiative, Ambassador Chuks Ododo, commended Mr Ozegbe for attracting the projects, describing them as a meaningful intervention that would improve the quality of life for residents.
He urged sustained advocacy for additional development projects that would further impact Utagba Uno and the wider Ndokwa West communities.
The solar-powered water facilities are expected to provide reliable access to clean water, reduce dependence on unsafe sources, and support long-term socio-economic development across the benefiting communities.
