Niger Delta Development: Momoh Calls For Long-Term Sustainability

Niger Delta Development: Momoh Calls For Long-Term Sustainability

Minister of Niger Delta Development Abubakar Momoh has highlighted the critical importance of addressing environmental sustainability and economic diversification in the region.

The Minister said this at the Niger Delta Stakeholders Summit 2024, held at the Obi Wali International Conference Centre in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, with the theme “Renewed Hope for Sustainable Development of the Niger Delta Region”.

Emphasising the urgency of the situation, Engr. Momoh pointed out ongoing efforts such as the Ogoni Clean-up Project and initiatives promoting cleaner energy sources like Compressed Natural Gas (CNG).

He stressed the need to diversify the region’s economy by investing in various sectors, citing untapped potential in tourism and the blue economy.

During his address, Momoh assured the audience of the government’s commitment to infrastructure development in the Niger Delta, highlighting recent projects like the 25.7km Ogbia-Nembe Road in Bayelsa State.

He called for peace and security in the region, urging all stakeholders to address the root causes of unrest and conflict.

Momoh framed the summit’s theme as a call to action, aligning it with the ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ of the current administration. He emphasized the need for collective efforts to harness the region’s resources and cultural heritage for sustainable development. The Minister also advocated for inclusive development that reaches every community, with a focus on empowering women and youth.

The event, co-hosted by NDDC Managing Director Samuel Ogbuku and Board Chairman Chiedu Ebie, was graced by former President Goodluck Jonathan; Senate President Godswill Akpabio, representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu; Adams Aliyu Oshiomhole; former Cross Rivers Governor Donald Duke; former Bayelsa State Governor Seriake Dickson; and traditional rulers from across the Niger Delta.

Other attendees included Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, HM Ekperikpe Ekpo, Ondo State Governor H.E Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Abia State Deputy Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, and Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.

Senate President Akpabio commended the Ministry of Niger Delta Development and the NDDC’s board and management for their commendable work. He highlighted the stalled East-West Road project, emphasizing the need for strategic project management and continuity.

Former President Goodluck Jonathan praised the minister and the NDDC for their efforts and urged the completion of all abandoned projects, reflecting a shared desire for tangible progress in the Niger Delta.

Donald Duke advocated for investments in agriculture, tourism, manufacturing, and technology to ensure the region’s long-term prosperity.

The summit, organized under the leadership of Engr. Abubakar Momoh, aimed to create a platform for dialogue and collaboration among key stakeholders in the Niger Delta region. It concluded with a strong emphasis on the necessity of working together to achieve sustainable development and prosperity in the area.