The Movement for the Survival of the Izon Ethnic Nationality in the Niger Delta (MOSIEND) has expressed strong commendation for the leadership of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and its notable achievements. MOSIEND President, Kennedy West, speaking in Warri, Delta State, attributed the Commission’s success to President Bola Tinubu’s astute selection of a competent and dedicated board. He emphasized the board’s demonstrable mutual respect and unwavering focus on addressing the complex challenges that have long plagued the Niger Delta region. West highlighted the positive shift from previous periods of internal strife within the NDDC, noting that the current board’s technical expertise and development-oriented approach have effectively silenced initial skepticism. He further praised President Tinubu’s overall appointment strategy, contrasting it with the difficulties faced by past administrations in selecting qualified individuals for key government positions.
West particularly lauded the NDDC Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, for his open-door policy, humility, and willingness to incorporate stakeholder feedback into his programs and policies. This inclusive approach, according to West, has fostered a sense of shared responsibility and collaboration among stakeholders, encouraging them to actively participate in the region’s development. He urged President Tinubu to provide the board with the necessary resources to fully implement its agenda and accelerate the realization of the “renewed hope” vision for the Niger Delta. While acknowledging MOSIEND’s non-partisan stance, West expressed the group’s admiration for the NDDC board’s performance, suggesting that it reflects positively on President Tinubu’s leadership. He extended this commendation to the state governors, encouraging continued inter-governmental collaboration, irrespective of party affiliations, to further advance the region’s progress.
The NDDC’s accomplishments, West asserted, resonate deeply with President Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda and have significantly restored the faith of the Niger Delta people in the Commission’s mandate. He expressed optimism that this positive momentum will continue, urging those who have historically obstructed development in the region to step aside and allow the NDDC’s vision to flourish. West emphasized Dr. Ogbuku’s commitment to completing ongoing projects, including crucial infrastructure such as roads, bridges, schools, and healthcare facilities. He further highlighted the Commission’s focus on human capital development, which aims to empower the citizens of the oil-rich region and foster a stronger sense of belonging.
A key achievement highlighted by West was the establishment of the Niger Delta Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Trade, Mines, and Agriculture (NDCCITMA). This initiative, designed to stimulate economic growth and promote peace, aims to engage youth in productive ventures and support entrepreneurship through structured assistance provided by the NDCCITMA. This development, according to West, represents a significant step towards harnessing the region’s economic potential and creating opportunities for its young population. He emphasized the unprecedented unity among the Niger Delta’s diverse ethnic nationalities in their support for the NDDC, attributing this to the inclusive leadership style of the current administration.
West called on all stakeholders to actively support the NDDC board’s vision, cautioning against activities that could hinder its progress. He expressed optimism about the upcoming project commissioning activities scheduled for February 2025, viewing it as a pivotal moment signaling a new era of development for the region. He reiterated the importance of continued collaboration and commitment from all involved parties to ensure the successful realization of the NDDC’s mandate and the overall prosperity of the Niger Delta.
In essence, MOSIEND’s commendation reflects a renewed sense of hope and confidence in the NDDC’s ability to deliver on its promise of development for the Niger Delta region. The organization’s praise for the current leadership, coupled with its call for continued support and collaboration, underscores the importance of this moment in the region’s history. The successful implementation of the NDDC’s agenda, along with the active participation of all stakeholders, holds the potential to transform the Niger Delta into a hub of economic prosperity and social progress, fulfilling the long-held aspirations of its people. The upcoming project commissioning in February 2025 is viewed as a symbolic milestone marking this transformative journey.
