The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has called upon traditional rulers in the Niger Delta region to collaborate with the Federal Government and security agencies to combat oil theft and pipeline vandalism. The appeal was made by Alabo Boma Iyaye, the Executive Director, Finance and Administration of the NDDC, during an interactive session with members of the Rivers State Council of Traditional Rulers in Port Harcourt.
Iyaye emphasized the vital role of traditional institutions in safeguarding oil assets and projects in the region. He stressed that curbing oil theft would lead to increased allocations for the Niger Delta, benefiting the entire community. Addressing the traditional rulers, Iyaye stated, “If there is no oil theft, there will be more allocation for the Niger Delta. I urge you all to try as much as you can to protect our resources and stop economic sabotage in our region.”
Acknowledging the significance of traditional rulers, Iyaye said, “We recognize the importance of the traditional rulers. Addressing this council today is a great privilege. It is like addressing the entire Rivers State through traditional rulers, representing the 23 Local Government Areas of the state.” He expressed optimism for positive developments in 2024 and assured the traditional rulers of the NDDC’s commitment to development projects in the region.
Chief Tony Okocha, the Rivers State Representative on the NDDC Board, affirmed the commitment to positive change within the commission. Okocha highlighted the challenges faced by the NDDC in the past and emphasized the board’s dedication to implementing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He underscored the importance of the interactive session in addressing the issues of abandoned projects and non-payment of contractors.
In response, the Chairman of the Rivers State Council of Traditional Rulers, Nyeweli Ohna Sergeant Awuse, appreciated the NDDC’s outreach and regarded it as a sign of respect for the traditional institution. He expressed gratitude for the positive changes within the NDDC and pledged the traditional rulers’ support for the commission’s efforts in discharging its duties for the Niger Delta region.
The NDDC emphasized its commitment to human capital development alongside infrastructure projects, aiming to bring positive change and address the challenges that have affected the region in the past.
