The Managing Director and chief executive officer of the Niger Delta development commission, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, has announced that the commission will only authorize projects that contribute value to the oil-rich region. This declaration was part of his remarks at the recently concluded Niger Delta stakeholder’s summit in Port-Harcourt, rivers state.
“We will set a new direction for the region. The summit serves as a measure for gathering feedback and identifying possible improvements in line with President Bola Tinibu’s renewed hope agenda. This Will involve open interactions not just with individuals, but also with members of the National Assembly, regional ministers, and private sector representatives, to discuss the Niger Delta and the mechanisms for effective service and project delivery”.
”we will look for ways to reduce reoccurring expenses. While prioritizing the completion of capital projects, only those that add meaning to the Niger Delta region will receive approval. Our aim is to work collectively towards transforming the region, adhering to the eight points presidential priorities and the requirements of the NDDC Act of 2000” Ogbuku stated.
He stated that the summit presented an opportunity to promote accountability within the NDDC.
“We are working diligently to achieve our goals. Currently, we are taking a different approach by sharing our story in a positive light. when you examine the statistics of NDDC projects, one might argue that the commission’s performance has room for improvement. The public believes in government policies, and I share that Confidence. It is important to gain the trust of the people. in fact, a quick review indicates that the commission has undoubtedly made significant Strides in the Niger Delta region, Having executed over 10,945 projects since 2001. These include 4,151 roads and bridges, 2,323 rural electrification projects, 1,723 building projects, and 642 water projects across the nine mandate states. while the majority of these projects have been completed, some are still in progress,” he noted.
Ogbuku highlighted that the NDDC’s primary objective in 2024 will be to maintain an ongoing dialogue with a broad spectrum of its stakeholders to understand the needs of the Niger Delta region’s inhabitants fully. He revealed that projects such as the Ogbia-Nembe Road in Bayelsa state, renewable energy Initiatives, and other infrastructure developments have been undertaken throughout the region’s interior.
“The ripple effects of these projects are extensive. They have spurred the creation of numerous micro small, and medium-sized enterprises, Including roadside auto mechanics, vulcanizers, kiosks, small shops, carpenters, welders, and others, these projects have not only enhanced Accessibility to these areas have also increased real estate values and contributed to alleviating unemployment, he noted.
former president Good Luck Jonathan remarked that the NDDC was established out of necessity and plays a crucial role in improving the region’s environment, infrastructure, and the overall well-being of its people.
“with the current leadership of the NDDC, the people of the Niger Delta have seen some positive developments, therefore, I urge the political class not to overburden the NDDC, allowing it to operate effectively.
“The political class should not hinder the Niger Delta development commission, enabling it to fulfill its responsibilities optimally”. Jonathan was commended at the summit
Similarly, Senate President Godswill Akpabio stated,
“to arrive at lasting solutions, Unity among the people of the Niger Delta and the entire nation is essential, with a shared vision we can surmount the challenges we face”.
