The Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, has called on stakeholders and the private sector to invest again in the Niger Delta region.
He made this call in Port Harcourt during the Niger Delta Business Roundtable, organized by the Niger Delta Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Trade, Mines and Agriculture (NDCCITMA). He stressed the need for teamwork and strong partnerships to achieve lasting development.
Ogbuku said the NDDC has completed many abandoned projects and is working on new ones. Some of these include the Okitipupa electrification project, the Ogbia–Nembe Road, and the Omadino–Okerenkoko–Escravos Road.
He explained that the Niger Delta has great economic potential and provides about 80% of Nigeria’s revenue. However, the region still faces poor infrastructure and low income levels. He assured investors that the region is peaceful and ready for business.
Ogbuku also said that with a stable four-year leadership, the NDDC is ready to deliver results. He urged everyone to work together to solve common problems like insecurity and poor electricity supply. He mentioned projects like “Operation Light Up the Niger Delta” as part of efforts to improve power.
He added that NDCCITMA will support businesses and help reduce political interference in NDDC activities. He encouraged the private sector to take the lead in growing the region’s economy.
The NDDC Executive Director of Administration, Alabo Boma Iyaye, praised NDCCITMA for organizing the event. He also thanked loan beneficiaries who have repaid their loans, noting that the roundtable highlighted the region’s business opportunities.
The Chairman of NDCCITMA, Ambassador Idaere Gogo Ogan, said that about 13,000 people applied for loans, with over 3,000 businesses receiving and repaying them. He encouraged participants to take advantage of the region’s opportunities.
Board Secretary Dr. Solomon Edebiri spoke about the Chamber’s achievements, especially in agriculture and the blue economy. He advised the region to reduce its dependence on oil and gas, pointing out that Lagos earns about $200 million from exports, while Port Harcourt earns less.
Keynote speaker Dr. Simbi Kesiye Wabote called for a new development plan based on proper planning and cooperation among Niger Delta states. He recommended creating a Regional Master Plan, building strong business institutions, and working together for long-term growth.
