President Bola Tinubu has pledged his administration’s commitment to completing key infrastructure projects in the Niger Delta, including the Okrika and Ataba sea-crossing bridges.
Speaking through the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, at the 25th anniversary celebration of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) in Port Harcourt on Saturday, President Tinubu said that all abandoned projects in the region must be revisited and completed.
He noted that the NDDC has the full backing of the government to carry out its work without interruption, adding that the Commission must stay focused on improving the lives of people in the oil-rich region.
“The Niger Delta remains vital to Nigeria’s economic growth,” the President said. “Key projects such as the Okrika and Ataba sea-crossing bridges must be completed, alongside investments in human capital and youth empowerment.”
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At the event, the Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibok-Ete Ibas, called for closer collaboration between the state and the NDDC.
He said the state values its role as host of the NDDC headquarters and wants to ensure that all resources are used effectively.
“We must now deepen collaboration to avoid duplication, maximize impact,” he said.
Tinubu calls for NDDC support
According to Mr. Tinubu, he called for NDDC support and development of sports centres, skill training engagement, and development of the blue economy, which aligns with his Renewed Hope Agenda (RHA).
Also speaking at the event, Senate President Godswill Akpabio revealed that the NDDC is currently dealing with about 14,700 abandoned projects. He blamed past leadership changes and mismanagement and promised that the current board is working to finish these projects.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan also warned against constant changes in NDDC leadership and the practice of awarding contracts without funding. He said such actions slow down progress and reduce the Commission’s effectiveness.
World Trade Organisation (WTO) Director-General, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala during the session, pointed out that despite receiving N7 trillion and starting over 15,000 projects, only 35% have been completed.
She urged the Commission to improve its performance and focus on real development.
NDDC Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, outlined the agency’s recent successes, including the revival of the 27km Ogbia-Nembe Road and resolving promotion delays within the Commission.
He assured the public that under President Tinubu’s RHA, the NDDC will continue working towards transforming the Niger Delta into a region of steady growth and opportunity.
