President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has instructed the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to prioritize the completion of all abandoned critical infrastructure projects across the Niger Delta region.
The directive was delivered during the NDDC’s 25th anniversary plenary celebration in Port Harcourt, where Tinubu was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume. Themed “Transmitting Vision to Reality for the Sustainable Development of the Niger Delta Region,” the event marked a pivotal moment for the commission.
Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the region, citing the Niger Delta’s strategic importance to national growth and development.
“I have directed the NDDC, through the Ministry of Regional Development, to complete and deliver all abandoned critical projects throughout the Niger Delta region,” he said.
Some of the highlighted projects include:
- Ka-Ataba Bridge
- Okrika-Borokiri Bridge
- Bonny Ring Road
- Barigolo Road and bridges
- East-West Sampou roads and bridges
The president expressed confidence that the successful delivery of these projects would significantly accelerate economic and social development in the Niger Delta and Nigeria at large. He also pledged full federal government support for the NDDC to ensure it fulfills its mandate.
“The NDDC remains central to the development of the Niger Delta. My administration pledges full support to the commission and will ensure it remains adequately empowered to deliver on its mandate,” Tinubu added.
He urged the NDDC to continue focusing on human capital development and community-based programs, particularly those that benefit rural populations. The president also praised the commission’s ‘Light Up the Niger Delta’ initiative, which has enhanced night-time security, improved social activities, and extended business hours across the region.
Also present at the event, Senate President Godswill Akpabio acknowledged the role of the National Assembly in the creation of the NDDC and reiterated the legislature’s ongoing support for the commission’s mission.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan, in a goodwill message, described the silver jubilee as a time for reflection and planning. He encouraged the NDDC to transition from oil dependency toward renewable energy and sustainable development.
“The next 25 years should deliver greater growth. The future of the Niger Delta lies in the hands of the NDDC,” Jonathan stated.
In her keynote speech, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), emphasized the need for measurable impact and sustainable transformation.
“The significance of today’s celebration must be reflected in real, measurable progress. The NDDC has done considerable work, but much more remains,” she said.
Minister of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh, highlighted recently completed projects including:
- The 25.7km Ogbia-Emakalakala-Akipelai-Etiama-Nembe Road with seven bridges.
- The Iko-Atabrikang-Akata-Opulom-Ikot Inwang and Okoroutip-Iwochange Road with the 800-metre Ibeno Bridge.
- A 132KV transmission line and 132KV/33KV electricity substation in Okitipupa, Ondo State.
Momoh praised the NDDC’s efforts despite challenges and commended the current leadership’s performance.
“President Tinubu is particularly pleased with the performance of the current NDDC leadership,” he added.
Mr. Chiedu Ebie, Chairman of the NDDC Governing Board, reflected on the commission’s leadership evolution and noted that stakeholder engagement has become a key focus in driving inclusive development.
Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, NDDC Managing Director, described the 25th anniversary as the beginning of a new era.
“This anniversary marks the dawn of a new beginning, not only for the NDDC but for the entire Niger Delta region,” he affirmed.