NDDC Executive Director Boma Iyaye Engages Rivers State Council of Traditional Rulers, Urges Support in Safeguarding Oil Assets
Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has solicited for assistance from traditional ruler, in its renewed bid to tackle the raging crisis of oil theft and pipeline vandalism in the Niger Delta region, the. This appeal was made at a fruitful meeting between the Rivers State Council of Traditional Rulers at their Port Harcourt headquarters and Alabo Boma Iyaye, the NDDC Executive Director, Finance and Administration.
Traditional Institutions as Key Allies:
Chief Iyaye highlighted the crucial role that traditional leaders can play in curbing oil-related crimes and urged them to collaborate with the government and security agencies. The Executive Director stated that he acknowledges the traditional institutions’ significance as key allies in protecting the region’s oil assets.
Promoting Economic Prosperity:
According to Chief Iyaye, revenue allocation to Niger Delta region would increase tremendously when oil theft stops. I urge you all to try as much as you can to protect our resources and stop economic sabotage in our region. He highlighted the potential positive impact on the region’s economic prosperity if oil-related crimes are curbed.*
Interactive Session Highlights Commitment:
At the interactive session, which provided an opportunity to discuss the challenges faced by the Commission and address concerns, such as, project abandonment and non-payment of contractors, the Rivers State Representative on the NDDC Board, Chief Tony Okocha, affirmed the new Board’s commitment to positive change.
Addressing Unfinished Projects:
Okocha expressed concerns about the approximately 953 uncompleted projects in Rivers State, linking them to leadership changes and contractor payment issues. He reassured that the NDDC, under the renewed agenda, would focus on both infrastructure development and human capital development.
Support from Traditional Rulers:
The Chairman of Rivers State Council of Traditional Rulers, Nyeweli Ohna Sergeant Awuse, appreciated the NDDC’s outreach and acknowledged the positive change observed in the board’s composition. He expressed gratitude for the first-time interactive session, pledging support and prayers for the NDDC to effectively discharge its duties for the Niger Delta region.
The collaboration between the NDDC and traditional rulers signifies a concerted effort to address challenges in the Niger Delta region, with a focus on safeguarding oil assets and fostering overall development.
