No Reason For Youth Protests Given Tinubu’s Commitment To National Development-Niger Delta Minister Momoh

No Reason For Youth Protests Given Tinubu’s Commitment To National Development-Niger Delta Minister Momoh

Abuja, Nigeria – July 31, 2024 – In a recent interview with State House correspondents, the Minister of Niger Delta Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh, FNSE, praised President Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for its significant strides in national development, particularly in the Niger Delta region. The Minister underscored the administration’s achievements despite limited resources and highlighted numerous projects aimed at improving the lives of the region’s youth.

Momoh emphasized President Tinubu’s deep commitment to the overall development of the country. He noted that several projects, previously neglected by past administrations, are now being executed under Tinubu’s leadership. Momoh expressed his surprise and commendation at the progress made with the current administration’s limited resources.

The Minister stressed that many youths are unaware of the numerous programs designed to alleviate their struggles. He urged the youth to take advantage of these opportunities instead of protesting, highlighting that the majority of Nigerians, especially the youths, are not fully aware of the programs put in place to alleviate their suffering.

Momoh highlighted the administration’s accomplishments in the Niger Delta, mentioning the Okitipupa electricity project, which reconnected seven local governments to the national grid after 15 years. He also pointed to the recently commissioned Ogbia/Nembe road, featuring seven bridges and 25 culverts, and the 600-meter bridge across the river in Akwa Ibom State. According to Momoh, the number of projects executed in the Niger Delta region within this one year surpasses those completed in the last four years.

The Minister also discussed the government’s efforts in flood relief and welfare programs, which have greatly benefited women and youths in the region. For the first time in the Ministry’s history, all empowerment programs were held within the various states of the Niger Delta, with a significant number of women and youths benefiting from these initiatives. Momoh mentioned the President’s approval of funds to address flooding and provide palliatives, demonstrating the administration’s commitment to the welfare of the Niger Delta people.

Addressing the issue of protests, Momoh stated that while no one, including the President, views protesting as a sin, protests should not result in mayhem or the destruction of property. He appealed to the youth to engage constructively and utilize the numerous programs initiated by the government, emphasizing the importance of taking advantage of these opportunities to improve their future prospects.

On corporate social responsibility (CSR), Momoh highlighted the implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), which ensures funds go directly to local communities. He urged these communities to utilize the funds responsibly and emphasized the Ministry’s role in overseeing the activities of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) and other development agencies. Momoh stressed the importance of ensuring that the host community fund and other available funds are well-utilized for the benefit of the people of the Niger Delta region.

Minister Momoh’s interview paints a picture of an administration deeply committed to the development of the Niger Delta and the empowerment of its youth. He encouraged the youth to explore the opportunities available to them and assured them of the government’s continuous support in addressing their needs and concerns.

Osigwe Omo-Ikirodah is a Special Assistant to the Hon Minister Niger Delta Development.