President Bola Tinubu has emphasised the importance of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) in steering youths in the region away from violent behaviours and towards entrepreneurship through constructive engagements.
Speaking at the grand finale of the NDDC’s 25th anniversary celebration on Saturday in Port Harcourt Rivers State, President Tinubu stressed that the Commission must prioritise human capital development and engage youths in a way that promotes legitimate means of self-development.
Represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, Tinubu noted that the NDDC remained central to the economic growth of the region and must continue to prioritise human capital development.
He encouraged the NDDC to collaborate with the Ministry of Youth and Development to leverage various initiatives available for youth development.
Tinubu also highlighted his administration’s commitment to community development, saying that it was close to his heart and would remain a top priority.
He mentioned that his administration swiftly constituted the NDDC board and increased funding to the agency to meet its obligations, reflecting his commitment to the development of the region.
The President also announced plans to complete abandoned road projects in the region and highlighted the potential of the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway in fostering trade and unlocking tourism opportunities in the Niger Delta.
According to him, the highway will serve as a viable alternative to the East-West Road.
Earlier, the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd.), commended Tinubu for his commitment to the development of the region and described the President’s intervention in the state’s political crisis as timely.
The Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Abubakar Momoh, also spoke at the event, noting that the NDDC has made significant progress in its 25 years of existence.
The celebration marked a significant milestone in the commission’s journey, highlighting its achievements and challenges in promoting development in the Niger Delta region.
Tinubu’s remarks emphasised the importance of the NDDC in promoting development and stability in the Niger Delta region, and his administration’s commitment to supporting the Commission’s efforts.
