Governors Okowa and Obiano should be using the Second Niger Bridge project as a platform for massive economic regeneration of the area

Ayo Akinfe

[1] Build a third River Niger crossing between Illah in Delta State and Nzom in Anambra State. Private developers will be used who will charge tolls to recoup their costs

[2] Build an artificial lake and dam to the north of Illah that will power a hydro-electric plant to generate at least 2,000MW

[3] Build a fishing factory on the island of Mgba Ekuku Illah. This island is unique in that it is in the middle of the River Niger

[4] Construct a petroleum refinery inbetween Illah and Onicha-Olona to refine the crude discovered in nearby Umuagwu, Onyia and Ajaji

[5] Build a dual carriageway linking Illah with Benin City, so all the Edo State traffic wanting to cross the River Niger have a clear route

[6] Merge the Otu Umutei, Otu Upkologwu, Otu Onya, Nkwor Ajaji, Afia Ngegu and Afia Eke markets into one huge commercial concern on the Anwal Road. This will serve as the “Onitsha West of the Niger.” These are all local markets scattered around Illah

[7] Hold Illah’s new yam festival Ikar Nmor and the fishing festival Iyi Okar within the same week and have one big commercial celebration. Market it like say Eyo in Lagos, Oju Ode in Ijebu or the Argungu fishing festival in Kebbi, attracting sponsors. We then try to build a hospitality industry around it

[8] Build a five star hotel on the banks of the Niger to serve as a hub around which a Tinapa-like tourist village can be built

[9] Over the long term, build a school of oceanography and marine research in Illah

[10] Commence a programme to dredge the River Niger from Illah to Onitsha in the south and up to Lokoja in the north to make it a marine trading hub