The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has conferred an award of honour on Professor Eyo Etim Nyong, a distinguished son of Cross River State, in recognition of his invaluable contributions to the development of the Niger Delta intervention regime.

The award ceremony, which took place in Calabar on Tuesday, drew dignitaries, political leaders, and stakeholders from across the South-South region. The event served not only as a celebration of Prof. Nyong’s achievements but also as a reflection on the critical role of intellectual leadership in regional advancement.

Prof. Nyong, a former commissioner who represented Cross River on the NDDC board, a seasoned academic, an outstanding authority in Petrochemical Engineering, an Elder Statesman, and a political giant with surpassing dimensions, has played a strategic role in shaping development policies and projects in the Niger Delta over the years.

His contributions to environmental sustainability, infrastructure planning, and policy development have been widely recognised by both government and non-governmental institutions.

In his remarks, the Managing Director of the NDDC, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, described Prof. Nyong as “a beacon of intellectual integrity and a relentless advocate for equitable development in the Niger Delta.” He noted that the award was part of the commission’s commitment to honouring individuals whose work has left a lasting imprint on the socio-economic landscape of the region.

Responding, Prof. Nyong expressed his gratitude to the NDDC for the recognition. He emphasised that his efforts were always guided by the vision of a prosperous, peaceful, and ecologically secure Niger Delta. “This award reaffirms the importance of staying committed to the values of service, equity, and sustainable development,” he stated.

The occasion also featured goodwill messages from prominent South-South leaders, who lauded Prof. Nyong’s contributions and called for increased collaboration between experts and public institutions to address the region’s developmental challenges.
Prof. Nyong’s recognition by the NDDC is seen as a significant endorsement of his decades-long commitment to regional progress, particularly in promoting inclusive policies and responsible environmental stewardship.

The honour bestowed on him further cements his legacy as one of Cross River State’s most respected intellectuals and policy influencers, and a key figure in the ongoing quest to transform the Niger Delta into a hub of sustainable growth and development.