The changing political and economic landscape in the Niger Delta region in recent years has been marked by an unprecedented commitment by President Bola Tinubu to sustainable development and improving the living conditions of the people of this strategic region. . Indeed, since taking office, President Tinubu has demonstrated a strong desire to support and assist in the implementation of projects aimed at promoting sustainable growth and significant progress in the Niger Delta.
The recent meeting of the Niger Delta National Council (NDNC), which took place in Asaba, was an opportunity to discuss and find solutions to the social, economic, environmental and infrastructure challenges facing the inhabitants of the region. During the meeting, the Minister of Niger Delta Development, Abubakar Momoh, highlighted efforts by the Federal Government to improve the socio-economic landscape of the region.
The minister highlighted President Tinubu’s commitment to implementing a holistic approach to the overall development of the Niger Delta. He also discussed ongoing infrastructure projects, community development programs and initiatives to address environmental issues in the region.
Meanwhile, the Director General of the Niger Delta Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, highlighted the stakeholder engagement policy adopted by the Tinubu administration. He announced the upcoming inauguration of 92 infrastructure projects carried out in the nine states of the region, representing an investment of 84 billion naira. He also highlighted the progress made under the “Light Up the Niger Delta” project, which has reduced crime and boosted business activities in rural communities in the region.
Furthermore, the NDDC launched a youth development and empowerment program titled “Holistic Opportunities, Projects and Engagement” (HOPE), aimed at building a comprehensive database of the youth population of the Niger Delta. This initiative is part of the federal government’s desire to provide employment opportunities and encourage entrepreneurship among young people in the region.
The partnership between the NDDC and the World Health Organization (WHO) for the implementation of a health insurance project, as well as the collaboration with the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) for the artisan skills program (SUPA), demonstrate the Commission’s commitment to supporting the human and economic development of the Niger Delta.
In conclusion, the actions undertaken by the Federal Government, under the leadership of President Tinubu, and implemented by the NDDC, aim to promote integrated and sustainable development in the Niger Delta, through infrastructure projects, community development programs and youth empowerment initiatives. This comprehensive approach is essential to address the socio-economic and environmental challenges facing this key region of Nigeria.