• Moves to tackle flooding, abandoned projects
The management of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) said the agency has been repositioned for improved mandate delivery by accelerating inclusive development across the region.
The agency said the repositioning is targeted at facilitating a genuine transformation of the Niger Delta into a region that is “economically stable, ecologically regenerative, and politically peaceful.
Speaking at a World Press Conference held in Asaba as part of activities marking the 25th anniversary of NDDC, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Commission, Samuel Ogbuku, assured a transparent and accountable leadership.
He, however, linked the problem of abandoned projects in the region to instability of the Commission’s board. Ogbuku said the frequent change of management affected the region for several years and disrupted activities at the commission, as there was no stability to create the vision at the commission.
He expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu, who, he said, assured them that they will complete their tenure but that they must give account of their stewardship.
Ogbuku, however, noted that the commission, under his leadership, has been able to address some lingering abandoned projects it inherited from past administrations, emphasising that abandoned projects cannot be tackled in a day. He attributed the commission’s improved performance to efforts by Tinubu to ensure stability in the agency’s board since he assumed office.
The NDDC boss also expressed concern about the issues of perennial flooding in the region, disclosing that the commission is working with the state governments to address the problem.
He said: “There are issues of irrigation all over the region. Erosion is not just a problem in the Delta North alone but also Edo State. We are discussing with the governments, and the Minister of Environment has directed on how we can collaborate to handle the challenges fully.” He also noted that the commission is intentional about ensuring judicious use of its budget to impact lives.
