The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has appealed to communities and stakeholders across its mandate states to take active ownership and responsibility for safeguarding development projects and public infrastructure within their domains.
 
With the growing concern over the persistent vandalism and neglect of amenities within the region, the commission warned that the deliberate destruction and theft of public assets are severely undermining development efforts and slowing growth.
 
While making the appeal during a one-day capacity-building engagement programme for stakeholders held in Okitipupa, headquarters of Okitipupa Local Council Area of Ondo State, officials of the commission harped on the importance of preserving public assets for the benefit of future generations.
 
The officials noted that such destructive acts are detrimental to improving the well-being of the Niger Delta region, particularly affecting access to electricity, road networks, and other basic social amenities.
 
Speaking at the event, the NDDC Executive Director of Corporate Services, Ifedayo Abegunde, expressed concern over the trend of destroying government-initiated projects in host communities.
 
Abegunde, who was represented by the Ondo State Director of the Commission, Kunle Karaki, described the situation as a major setback that hinders the commission’s mandate to drive sustainable development within the axis.

He said: “Regrettably, we have observed instances where vandalism, theft, neglect, and insufficient community engagement have compromised valuable assets intended to improve collective well-being. Such setbacks not only delay progress but also diminish the returns on resources committed for the benefit of our people.”
 
According to him, community ownership goes beyond simply using facilities, stressing that it requires active stewardship, vigilance against threats to public assets, prompt reporting of irregularities, participation in monitoring processes, and collaborative maintenance efforts.