Clark says disappointed Tinubu scrapped Niger Delta Ministry

Clark lauds Tinubu, security agencies over rescue of medical students

Elder Statesman and leader of the Ijaw nation Chief Edwin Clark has expressed shock and disappointment at the federal government’s decision to abolish the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs.

President Bola Tinubu, in a major cabinet reshuffle on Wednesday, announced the dissolution of the Niger Delta Ministry and the Ministry of Sports Development.

Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to the President, Bayo Onanuga, made the disclosure via a tweet on his X handle after a Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting held on Wednesday.

According to the statement, a new Ministry of Regional Development will be established to oversee all regional development commissions, including the Niger Delta Development Commission and others from various regions.

Chief Clark stressed that the ministry was created by former President Yar’Adua specifically to address the pressing security and development challenges in the Niger Delta region.

He asserted that there was no justification for this decision, pointing out that the ministry had a clear mandate to promote peace and development. He criticised the lack of development plans and funding from the government, noting that critical projects like the East-West Road remain unaddressed since its transfer back to the Ministry of Works.

He raised concerns about the federal government’s commitment to regional development, questioning whether multiple development commissions would effectively serve the needs of the region.

Clark recalled the outcomes of the 2014 national conference, where agreements were made to increase revenue allocation to the Niger Delta and establish funding for post-conflict recovery—agreements that he feels have not been honoured.

Clark stressed the necessity for the government to engage with leaders from the Niger Delta and South-South regions to ensure their perspectives are included in future plans.

He called for transparency regarding the government’s strategy for regional development, stressing that the interests of the Niger Delta cannot be sidelined.

He concluded by stating that a democratic government should prioritise the welfare of its citizens rather than operate in isolation or without public input.