The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting security agencies in securing Nigeria’s waterways to bolster the growth of the blue economy.
Speaking at the 2025 Annual General Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association in Enugu, the Managing Director of NDDC, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku emphasised the critical role of the blue economy in the Niger Delta’s future.
“The blue economy is central to the Niger Delta’s development. It will drive economic growth, reduce youth unemployment, enhance food security, and support climate change adaptation,” he stated.
Ogbuku, accompanied by Alabo Boma Iyaye, NDDC’s Executive Director of Finance and Administration, highlighted the necessity of collaboration with security forces to ensure peace, a prerequisite for sustainable development.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to the Niger Delta’s peace and progress, directing us to deliver legacy projects that will transform lives. This is only possible in a secure environment,” he said.
The NDDC has consistently supported the Nigerian Navy, Army, and Police, with Ogbuku pledging continued assistance to enhance their efforts.
“Last year, we made significant contributions to security agencies, and we are prepared to do more to sustain peace and drive development,” he added.
Reflecting on the NDDC’s 25-year history, Ogbuku noted that frequent leadership changes have hindered progress but affirmed the current board’s focus on completing critical projects aligned with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
He cited the “Light Up the Niger Delta” campaign as a success, reducing crime and boosting commerce through clean energy initiatives that also mitigate climate change impacts.
Ogbuku also highlighted youth empowerment efforts, including a comprehensive database of the region’s youth and the establishment of the Niger Delta Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Trade, Mines, and Agriculture (NDCCITMA) in partnership with the Bank of Industry to support young entrepreneurs.
Chudi Offodile, an Executive Director at the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), commended the NDDC’s collaborative approach during the conference.
He noted that the Niger Delta accounts for approximately 75% of Nigeria’s foreign exchange earnings and hosts most of the nation’s maritime domain, underscoring its pivotal role in the blue economy.
The NDDC’s ongoing efforts aim to foster harmony among stakeholders to address the region’s developmental challenges and unlock its economic potential.
