In a significant move towards fostering peace and security in the Niger Delta region, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), has affirmed the organization’s commitment to supporting security agencies. The pledge was made during a courtesy visit by a delegation from the Nigerian Airforce, led by Group Captain Ali Idris, Commander 115 Special Operations, at the NDDC headquarters in Port Harcourt.
Ogbuku underscored the indispensable role of peace and security in creating an environment conducive to the rapid development of the Niger Delta. Stressing the interdependence of security and development, he stated, “Without security, there won’t be peace. And without peace, there won’t be development.” Recognizing the ongoing support from security agencies in maintaining peace, Ogbuku emphasized NDDC’s responsibility to provide essential facilities to assist these agencies in their duties.
Highlighting the administration’s focus on stakeholder engagements, Ogbuku reiterated the importance of creating a safe environment for contractors to work. He expressed the need for the Niger Delta to be secure for investments, asserting that confidence in the region could be restored through the efforts of security agencies.
Group Captain Ali Idris, Commander 115 Special Operations, outlined the mission of the Special Operations to provide security for oil installations in the Niger Delta. He highlighted setbacks due to infrastructure deficiencies and appealed for NDDC’s assistance in providing basic infrastructure such as living quarters for Airforce personnel at the Port Harcourt Airforce Base. Additionally, he requested the installation of solar-powered street lights and other clean energy facilities for offices at the base.
Assuring continued collaboration, Idris pledged that the Airforce would work in conjunction with other security agencies to ensure adequate security in the Niger Delta region. The commitment to collaboration between the NDDC and security agencies aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration’s emphasis on stakeholder engagements to promote peace and facilitate development.
*Pius Ughakpoteni, Director of Corporate Affairs, released this statement on December 15, 2023.*
