The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) is committed to prioritizing projects that demonstrably benefit the oil-rich region, according to its Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku.
Ogbuku made these remarks during the recent Niger Delta Stakeholders Summit in Port Harcourt. The summit aimed to gather feedback and align the NDDC’s activities with President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda.”
Ogbuku emphasized a new approach for the NDDC, characterized by transparency and accountability. He acknowledged past criticisms and stated, “We are working very hard to deliver. What we are doing now is to do things differently by positively telling our story.”
Despite acknowledging room for improvement, Ogbuku highlighted the NDDC’s history of project completion. He cited statistics showing over 10,945 projects undertaken since 2001, encompassing roads, bridges, electrification initiatives, buildings, and water projects across the Niger Delta’s nine states.
Looking ahead, Ogbuku outlined the NDDC’s 2024 priorities: continuous engagement with stakeholders, renewable energy projects, and infrastructural development in the region’s hinterland, including the Ogbia-Nembe Road in Bayelsa State. He emphasized the positive impact of these projects, including job creation through the rise of micro, small, and medium-sized businesses.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan, a summit attendee, emphasized the NDDC’s crucial role in environmental improvement, infrastructure provision, and livelihood enhancement for the region’s residents. He urged the political class to avoid hindering the NDDC’s effectiveness by demanding undue favors.
Senate President Senator Godswill Akpabio echoed the need for unity. He declared, “To achieve lasting solutions, we must overcome disunity. Unity among the people of the Niger Delta and the entire nation is not just a choice but a necessity. Through our shared vision, we can overcome the obstacles before us.”
The Niger Delta Stakeholders Summit signifies a renewed commitment by the NDDC to prioritize valuable projects, engage with stakeholders, and contribute to the region’s development.
