Managing director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, Dr Samuel Ogbuku on Wednesday vowed to continue to sustain a strong partnership with the Nigerian Army and other security agencies to ensure safety and security of the Niger Region.
Ogbuku said this when he received the Commander, Joint Task Force, South-South, Operation Delta Safe, Rear Admiral Olugbenga Oladipo at the commission’s headquarters.
The managing director said it was important for the region to remain safe as it was the economic hub of the country, and in line with the desire of the president, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He said it was only under a peaceful atmosphere that development could be achieved. “The peace, security, and sustainable development of the Niger Delta remain at the heart of our mandate at the Niger Delta Development Commission.
“I wish to reaffirm, unequivocally, the commission’s strong commitment to continuous collaboration with security agencies operating in the region to ensure that peace is sustained and development accelerated.
“Without a secure environment, our collective efforts to deliver infrastructure, create jobs, and improve livelihoods across the Niger Delta cannot yield lasting results.
“The Niger Delta is the economic nerve centre of Nigeria. The stability of this region directly impacts national prosperity. It is for this reason that the NDDC remains firmly aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which places peace, security, and inclusive development at the core of national progress. Any threat to peace in the Niger Delta is a threat to the entire nation, and we will not allow that to happen,” the managing director stated.
He recalled that over the years, the commission had consistently supported security agencies through strategic interventions, including support to the 16 Brigade in Bayelsa State, the ongoing development of a major Army base in Warri, and the provision of critical assets such as a naval base jetty, gunboats, and houseboats to the Nigerian Navy in Ayakoro and Ayama communities.
The interventions, he noted, “reflect our belief that development and security are intertwined and must advance together. Sustained peace in the Niger Delta will unlock vast economic opportunities, attract both local and foreign investments, and create much-needed employment for our youths. Job creation remains a critical pathway to long-term stability and prosperity in the region.”
He hailed the Joint Task Force, Operation Delta Safe as well as all security agencies for their dedication and professionalism in ensuring that the Niger Delta remained one of the safest regions in the country today. “The visible improvement in security has restored investor confidence, revived economic activities, and strengthened Nigeria’s global outlook.
“The NDDC will continue to partner closely with the Joint Task Force and other security stakeholders in the interest of peace, increased productivity, and holistic development of the Niger Delta.”
The visiting commander had commended the NDDC for its contribution and support towards a peaceful Niger Delta, even as he sought for a continued partnership in the days ahead.
