Niger Delta Summit: A New Dawn for Sustainable Development?
The recently concluded Niger Delta Stakeholders Summit in Port Harcourt attracted numerous influential figures, including Senate President Godswill Obot Akpabio, Bayelsa State Governor Duoye Diri, the Governor Ondo State and former President Goodluck Jonathan, who chaired the summit. Organized by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), the summit aimed to chart a roadmap for the region’s economic growth under the theme “Renewed Hope for Sustainable Development of the Niger Delta Region.”
However, the summit was overshadowed by the noticeable absence of several regional governors, including the host state Governor Sim Fubara. Governors from Delta, Edo, and Imo states were also missing, with only the Deputy Governor of Cross River State and Imo State in attendance. This lack of representation raised concerns about the unity and commitment of regional leaders towards the summit’s objectives.
The NDDC, established in 2000 under President Olusegun Obasanjo, is mandated to facilitate the sustainable development of the Niger Delta. Rich in oil and gas, the region has long suffered from neglect and environmental degradation. The NDDC’s objectives include planning and executing projects in infrastructure, education, and healthcare, addressing ecological issues, and collaborating with other development agencies.
Since its inception, the NDDC has undertaken various projects aimed at improving the region’s socio-economic landscape. These include constructing and rehabilitating roads and bridges, providing scholarships, establishing healthcare facilities, and implementing youth empowerment programs. Despite these efforts, the commission has faced allegations of mismanagement and corruption, leading to inefficiencies and project delays. Former President Goodluck Jonathan highlighted the issue of abandoned projects, calling for greater accountability.
In his speech, President Bola Tinubu, represented by Senate President Akpabio, reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to the Niger Delta’s development, citing the NDDC’s 2024 budget as evidence. He praised the current board and management for their achievements. Former President Jonathan, chairing the summit, lauded the NDDC’s trajectory but stressed the need to address abandoned projects and urged politicians to refrain from interfering in the agency’s affairs.
On his part, Governing Board Chairman, Mr. Chiedu Ebie, emphasized the importance of constructive stakeholder contributions. He called for participants to avoid disruptive behavior and focus on reshaping opinions and securing commitments to protect local projects. NDDC Managing Director, Samuel Ogbuku, highlighted the agency’s achievements under his leadership and emphasized collaboration with state governors for regional development.
Issue of security was not left out in the discussion as the National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu announced plans to establish a specialized department to tackle insecurity in the Niger Delta, a persistent challenge hindering development efforts. This announcement was well-received, setting a positive tone for the summit’s discussions, which were divided into seven syndicate groups addressing critical regional issues.
The summit received goodwill messages from dignitaries such as Senator Eteng Jonah and Deputy Chairperson of the House Committee on NDDC, Jafaru Leko. The participation of traditional rulers added a cultural perspective, enriching the discussions with diverse viewpoints.
This year’s summit is expected to mark a significant departure from past gatherings, which often resulted in rhetoric without action. The involvement of high-profile dignitaries and detailed thematic discussions provided a solid foundation for actionable plans. The summit demonstrated a renewed commitment from both the NDDC and the federal government to actualize sustainable development in the region.
For the people of the Niger Delta, the summit offers a beacon of hope. The emphasis on collaboration, security, and sustainable development signals a potential turnaround in the region’s fortunes. It is crucial for the NDDC to maintain this momentum and ensure that the recommendations from the summit are implemented effectively.
The absence of several governors, however, raises questions about their commitment to the region’s development. Their participation is crucial for the successful implementation of the summit’s recommendations. Moving forward, it is essential for these governors to actively engage in the NDDC’s initiatives to ensure a unified approach to the region’s development.
The Niger Delta Stakeholders Summit 2024 represents a pivotal moment for the region. With continued commitment and effective implementation of the summit’s recommendations, the outcomes could significantly impact the lives of the people in the Niger Delta, marking a crucial opportunity for the region to realize its potential. The collective efforts of all stakeholders will be vital in achieving the summit’s goals and fostering a future of growth and stability for the Niger Delta.
Emmanuel Ochonogor Enebeli, Anipr, CEO, Entrepreneur, Public Relations Consultant and Media Strategist, enebelli@hotmail.com, +234 (806) 331 9057
