The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has reached out to development partners and donor agencies, urging them to collaborate in transforming the Niger Delta region into a model of development.
During a one-day policy dialogue in Abuja, held in collaboration with the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, the NDDC called for enhanced synergy and cooperation to achieve shared mandates and promote transparent governance.
The policy dialogue aimed to achieve several objectives, including mapping donor interventions and aligning them with NDDC’s mandate, establishing a coordination framework, ensuring accountability and stakeholder participation, and defining strategies for donor support that align with NDDC objectives and community priorities.
Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, the Managing Director of NDDC, emphasized the need for support from development partners and increased funding for the development of the Niger Delta region. He highlighted ongoing engagements with key stakeholders such as oil companies, state governments, traditional rulers, civil society groups, youth organizations, and contractors.
Dr. Ogbuku also highlighted the importance of collaboration with multinational corporations like Shell, Chevron, ExxonMobil, and Total in executing legacy projects, such as the Warri-Escravos Road.
The Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs commended the NDDC’s initiative, noting that it presented an opportunity to expand formal interaction with development agencies. The forum provided a platform for brainstorming and promoting greater synergy in the region’s development.
Representatives from various development partners and donor agencies, including UNDP, USAID, DFID, World Bank, EU, JICA, AfDB, GIZ, and CBN, expressed their willingness to support the NDDC in addressing the socio-economic challenges of the Niger Delta region and achieving sustainable development.
The policy dialogue marked a significant step towards forging partnerships and mobilizing resources for the overall development of the Niger Delta region.
