₦airaland Forum

The new Special Protection Unit Base 6 barracks built and donated by Niger Delta Development Commission to the Nigeria Police Force in Omagwa, Rivers State, has been renamed the President Muhammadu Buhari Nigeria Police (Special Protection Unit) Base 6 Barracks.

The complex, made up of a commander's quarters, 68 residential flats, offices and other facilities, would be commissioned by the President on Tuesday.

Announcing this in Abuja, the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, said this was done in recognition of President Muhammadu Buhari's commitment towards enthronung peace and security in the Niger Delta region.

Senator Akpabio said that President Buhari directed that the barracks, begun several years ago, should be completed quickly to boost the work of the Nigeria Police Force in the Niger Delta, as well as efforts at facilitating sustainable regional development.

He commended the Interim Administrator of the NDDC for heeding the directive of the Federal Government, stating that "the new NDDC is renewing the confidence of Niger Deltans in Government's seriousness to bring development to the communities."

He added: "This is one of a few projects NDDC is completing and commissioning, post the forensic audit exercise. It shows that we are on the right track and that the Niger Delta will enjoy more of government's efforts to improve living conditions of the region and restore hope in the people."

President Muhammadu Buhari will on Tuesday (September 28) commission the Special Protection Unit Base 6 barracks, built and donated by the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, to the Nigeria Police Force.

The barracks, with 68 fully air-conditioned flats, also comprises a five bedroom commander's quarters, functional office accommodation, a sentry post, guardroom with armoury and a parade ground.

It is located in the Omagwa area of Port Harcourt, which is the host community for the Port Harcourt International Airport.

Construction of the barracks started several years ago, but was completed early this year as part of the renewed drive by the Commission, under the leadership of the Interim Administrator/Chief Executive, Mr Efiong Akwa, to complete key projects.

Speaking last July, Mr Akwa had noted that the apartment complex was meant to provide accommodation to Policemen in the Special Protection Unit (SPU) of the Force.

"The housing units will therefore help to improve security around around and within the Port Harcourt International Airport", said the NDDC Chief Executive.

In the last two years, NDDC management has worked hard to complete important projects in different sectors of the economy. In addition, it has also donated many amenities and facilities, including garbage trucks and medical equipment to state governments in the region.

President Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday formally received the report of the Forensic Audit of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), with a vow to implement to the letter, recommendations of the report, saying," the Federal Government will initiate criminal investigation, prosecute and recover all funds not properly utilized for the public purposes for which they were meant for."

He noted further that, "the Federal Government will without hesitation, strategically implement all aspect of the report that will promote probity and greater prosperity for the people of the Niger Delta Region and Nigeria as a whole."

Speaking through his Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, who received the report on his behalf, from the Minister, Niger Delta Affairs Ministry, Senator Godswill Akpabio, Buhari thanked the Minister, the Auditors and the security agencies for doing a good job for the nation by seeing through the success of the exercise.

"From 2001 to 2020, over Three Trillion Naira have been given to the NDDC in terms of budgetary allocation and over Two Trillion Naira from Statutory and non Statutory sources have been given to the NDDC, yet nothing commensurate is on ground to justify the allocations", he declared.

Speaking further Buhari said, " I am delighted you have concluded this exercise and report presented. The Federal Government is not oblivious of the interest generated on the forensic exercise by stakeholders on the constitution of the NDDC board. This administration is determined to address the challenges militating against the delivery of the mandate of the NDDC to the people of the region and what part of the reason the President signed the PIB into law."

According to him," the report and your recommendations would be critically examined for necessary action and implementation. The essence of the exercise was to ensure probity and accountability in the running of the NDDC. It is therefore important for the Federal Government to be properly informed of all what had been spent and how it was spent."

He declared that," the laws of the commission would be reviewed and proper restructuring implemented for efficiency and service delivery for due process compliant. The President has directed that the report be forwarded to The Federal Ministry of Justice for legal review by relevant agencies."

In his remark before handing over the report to Buhari, the Supervising Minister over the commission, disclosed that the auditors have concluded the examination and documentation of a total 13,777 contracts for projects and programmes awarded to Contractors and consultants in all Niger Delta States from 2001-August 2019, at a total final contract value of N 3,274.206,032,213.24.

According to Akpabio, the name and identity of a vast number of beneficiary companies were also
captured as well.

“Via Field Verification, the Forensic Auditors established the exact status of all contracts for projects and programmes in all constituent states during the period under review classified into completed, ongoing, abandoned, terminated, taken-over and non-existence, " he declared

The Minister disclosed that the auditors also focused on funding gaps, Irregularities, mismanagements and Due Proces Violations/Conflicts of interest.

He went on: “A Personnel Audit and Review of the governance and organisational structure of NDDC was also carried out. An operational guideline/Manual and a fit-for-purpose organogram that would aid the transformation of NDDC to a globally competitive development agency has been developed as well.

“Available financial records of the commission were analysed with the aim of establishing the total amount of funds received by the Commission from all sources, both statutory and non-statutory and
the total funds and other resources paid to contractors as well as the total amount outstanding as debts with regards to such projects within the period under reference.

“The Auditors have also provided policy recommendations, in
terms of measures that should be taken to ensure the prevention of such irregularities and mismanagement, going forward.

“With utmost respect Sir, I crave the indulgence of Your Excellency that
after my speech, the Lead Forensic Auditors will present to you a quick summary of their Findings and Recommendations.”

Forensic Report: Group Alerts On Planned Sponsored Media Attack On Akpabio, Others Over Submission Of Audit Report To Buhari.

A group, Niger Delta Forum For Sustainable Peace, has raised the alarm on what it described as plans by some faceless politicians, failed contractors and media contractors to sponsor coordinated media attacks on the person and office of the Minister, Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio and the Lead Auditor.

The group, in a statement jointly signed by Comrade Peter Agbor and Pastor Timi Jonathan, President and Secretary respectively, said that the intention of the sponsors of this campaign of calumny is to discredit the entire exercise by accusing the Auditors of being tele-guided by the supervising minister to indict some powerful individuals.

"They have also concluded plans to use fictitious NGO, to write unsubstantiated petition against the Minister and to submit same to the EFCC chairman.

The Statement reads:

DESPERATE ATTEMPTS TO DISCREDIT THE NDDC FORENSIC REPORT

It is a known fact that those who had benefited from the corrupt practices of the past, were hell bent on resisting the Forensic Audit using various extreme strategies to frustrate government’s genuine effort at repositioning the NDDC.

These elements and enemies of our nation, however, failed in their desperate bid to blackmail the government from going ahead with the Audit.

From reports, over 76 hitherto abandoned projects have since been completed and handed over by contractors, while others have since returned to site as a result of the Audit.

The NDDC Forensic Audit has proven to be one of the single most decisive blow of this administration on the hydra-headed monster called corruption, amongst several other salient gains recorded by the government.

Our searchlight has however gotten wind of a grand design by these mischievous elements including contractors and some powerful politicians to prevent the report from being presented to Mr President and recommendations fully implemented to the letters.

The strategy is to smear the image of the Hon. Minister of Niger-Delta Affairs. Already, a non-practicing lawyer has been contracted to write frivolous petitions against Senator Akpabio and the lead Forensic Auditors.

In the immediate past, we have had cause to alert the nation about these satanic and unpatriotic characters who do not mean well for this administration.

Our most recent findings indicate that their modus operandi is to raise false alarm of malfeasance against some key members of this administration.

Barely 72 hours to the submission of the forensic audit report of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to the President by the Lead Forensic Auditors, these faceless politicians and failed contractors who are scared of the outcome of the report, in cohort with their professional petition writers have concluded plans to re-launch series of campaign of calumny against principal actors in the just concluded exercise.

We reliably gathered that with effect from Monday, August 30, 2021, (Today) these characters have concluded plans for continuous sponsored media campaigns. Their plan is also to use fictitious Non Governmental Organizations in Abuja to submit fabricated petitions against the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs and the Lead Auditors

It should be noted that this same character that has been hired for this dirty job has written series of petitions against Senator Akpabio since he left office as the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, over six years ago.

The pertinent question to ask this blackmailer in chief and his co- travellers is, why they have decided to launch their tirade against Senator Akpabio at this time.

Certainly this is a last ditch attempt to discredit the outcome of the Forensic Audit report of the NDDC ever since they got wind that the report was ready and would soon be submitted to the President. This is truly corruption fighting back.

We, therefore, urge our dear President to discountenance the sponsored campaigns against the Forensic Audit, receive the report and implement same in the interest of the people of the Niger Delta region and Nigerians as a whole.

We are certain that with the submission of the Forensic Audit report, the era of unprecedented and monumental corruption manifesting in extensive contract frauds, procurement law infractions, non-budgetary and extra-budgetary spending, audit violations, cronyism, fiscal recklessness and flagrant disregard to procedural rules as well as other financial malpractices shall be put to a final halt, while ushering unprecedented development for the region.

We urge all discerning true patriots to keep faith with the anti-corruption war of the government as it is in the overall interest Nigeria and no campaign, we repeat no campaign of calumny, falsehood, lies and half truth can stop this birth of a new era in the Niger Delta Region .

God bless Nigeria.

Comrade Peter Agbor
National President

Pastor Timi Jonathan
National Secretary.

30th August, 2021

We'll Stand By Buhari To Achieve His Programs For Niger Delta Region - Olu Of Warri

The Olu of Warri, His Royal Majesty, Utieyinoritsola Eriko Ogiame Atuwase 111, has declared his support and that of his kingdom for the programs and plans of President Mohammadu Buhari, for the development of the Niger Delta Region.

The Monarch, who was last week installed as the 21st Olu of Warri, stated this while receiving in courtesy, The Minister, Niger Delta Affairs Ministry, Senator Godswill Akpabio, in his palace in Warri on Saturday.

In his words, "let me assure and also encourage you to know that when things are being discussed at the highest level in this country about the Niger Delta Region, please see us as a staunch ally and a firm supporter.

"Let President Buhari know that, as he communicates his visions and plans for the people of the region through you, that he has a strong ally and supporter here that will help him actualize all those plans. We shall give all our best to ensure those programs succeed."

Speaking further, he stressed that "when the Niger Delta region functions optimally, Nigeria will get it right, not when Lagos or Abuja functions. When the region truly fulfills its potentials outside Oil and Gas, with our Seaports fully operational, good road network for communication and economic development, the economy of this nation will blossom".

He noted that peace in the region was very important if development must come to the people, saying, " what is top on the agenda in this palace is peace, unity and prosperity. We will not visit old wounds and division. All that would be expected of us to make the economy work, we will do that.

"If it is spiritual work, if it is to speak it into existence, we will do that. If it is to use our good offices to re educate, re orientate our people to see these things that we have in the region as belonging to all of us because we are all one, we will also do that.

"When we achieve this unity and peace in the region, most of our children living in Lagos and Abuja and even outside the country, will relocate and help further develop the region because there is no place like home."

Earlier in his remarks, Senator Akpabio congratulated the monarch for the successful coronation ceremony, saying," my visit here today is to congratulate His Majesty for peaceful ascension of the throne of your forebears. At the event, I was only represented but I decided to be present today as a sign of brotherhood and to register my loyalty to the crown."

Akpabio charged the monarch to continue his peace and unity agenda in the kingdom asserting that, "with these eminent Nigerians who make up the Council of Chiefs as counsellors, their wisdom and experience given to them by God, you can never go wrong, and that is why the Warri Kingdom stands out in the Niger Delta region."

" I know I must get directive from you as the Minister in charge of the Niger Delta region, on what and what should be done for the people of your kingdom. Our job is to support you to succeed as the Olu through provision of infrastructure and other needs. Work on the abandoned Okorie road, I can assure you, will commence in September this year. My request is simple, you should also help with what you have already started which is the spiritual aspect.

"You would recall, Your Majesty, that shortly after your coronation, you handed over the entire Warri Kingdom to God Almighty, cancelling all curses that was placed on the kingdom by past Olus because of how they were treated by government. You used the authority given to you by God. Do not depart from your set goals because you have a mission".

Akpabio promised to work with the monarch as a son for the development of the Niger Delta region, saying " I will work with you as the president's representative to develop the region. I don't want to be a guest in the palace. I am speaking as a son of the kingdom, who can come at anytime to discuss issues affecting the region".

AKPABIO'S PASSION FOR SERVICE TO THE LESS PRIVILEGED IS UNRIVALLED - SALVATION ARMY

The Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has been described as a politician who has distinguished himself in office because of his passion for the improvement and development of the less priviledged in the society.

This was the submission of the wife of the General of the Salvation Army and World President of Women's Ministries, Commissioner Rosalie Peddle, in her remarks after the former Senate Minority Leader, delivered his key note address at the Centenary Celebration of the Salvation Army on Friday in Lagos.

According to her, " I have listened to a lot of politicians and I don't think I have ever heard of any one who preaches and talks about the things of God in the way you have done today. You are not only a choirmaster, you are Preacher, you are a sound leader, you are a Senator, lover of children and lover of pregnant women and women generally."

Speaking further, she stated that the former governor of Akwa Ibom State, was always proud of recognizing God as the source of all his successes in life, saying, "above all, I am impressed that you have given all of the praise to the One that has placed you on this world and given you all the opportunities to lead and do well.

"You are a man of humility and you know that your dependency is on the only One who has all that you need. We are so thankful to you. Thank you for encouraging us and speaking so glowingly about Salvation Army. We send you off with riches and blessings in abundance from the Almighty God, " she declared.

Earlier in his keynote address at the Centenary celebration, Senator Akpabio called on Nigerian politicians to rise and emulate the Salvation Army in their dealings with the people, saying, "we need Salvation Army-like politicians in Nigeria."

In clear reference to his eight year tenure as the governor of Akwa Ibom State, Akpabio said," Between 2007 and 2015, God entrusted me with the responsibility of serving as Governor of Akwa Ibom State. I surrendered to His divine leadership and through Him, governance in its best practice was unleashed on Akwa Ibom State.

"We tackled every facet of governance with messianic zeal while making the people the central measure of value. We declared Free and Compulsory Education to children of school going age resident in Akwa Ibom State, Free healthcare to critical segments of our population, initiated myriad of empowerment programmes to lift our people out of poverty, built the best sports stadium in West Africa to encourage our youths to participate in sporting activities, built the E- Library to encourage learning through access to e- books and constructed the pipe jacking technology to control the flood that had overtaken almost all parts of Uyo Metropolis and its environs.

"The list is endless which is why the era earned rightly the sobriquet, Uncommon Transformation. All these happened because we allowed righteousness to reign in our hearts so that we could deliver dividends of democracy to the people. We acted as soldiers of the people and protected them using the tool of good governance. What we did to achieve this enviable record was to follow the footsteps of the Salvation Army as enunciated by the Booths," he said.

The Minister described President Mohamadu Buhari as one leader that has demonstrated and shown the ethos of Salvation Army, saying, "His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari, is one leader that has consistently demonstrated the ethos that the Salvation Army of William and Catherine Booth conceived and practicalised.

"His strong aversion for corruption and determination to foist infrastructural revolution across our Nation are the equivalents and subsets of righteous leadership which embodies virtues that give rise to good governance. It is in these virtues that one finds honesty, sincerity of purpose, character, vision and compassion for the people. All of these, our dear President has in abundance, making him a soldier of righteousness," he said.

No fewer than 76 projects awarded to various contractors by the Niger Delta Development Commission, (NDDC), which were hitherto abandoned, have been completed and handed over the commission.

The Interim Administrator of the Commission, Mr. Effiong Akwa, stated this on Tuesday in Abuja, while presenting a lecture on "the Role of NDDC In National Development" during the 4th Democracy Lecture Series at the University of Abuja.

The event, which was organized by the Department of History and International Studies, drew participants from all walks of life to the Faculty of Management Science Auditorium of the main campus of the institution.

Akwa noted that the various contractors were afraid of falling into the hands of the forensic auditors, which he said forced them back to site, leading to the completion of the over 76 abandoned projects and subsequent hand over to the NDDC.

He, however, informed the gathering that the commission under his watch has been able to translate the dreams of the founding fathers, which he said is evident in the completion and commissioning of the 13 Storey building headquarters of the commission by President Muhammadu Buhari.

In his words, “Governor Wike of Rivers State called me the other day because he has been so supportive of my administration. He said that now that we’ve completed the headquarters, we should move everything from the Aba road office to cut down our expenses. I want to say that in the coming week, we should be able to handover the keys to Rivers State Government."

“Under the current Interim Administration, we’ve donated science equipment to students, we’ve Hepatitis vaccines centres in all the states in the region just to make sure that there’s stability. Anywhere you come from, if you walk into any hospital in any of the states in Niger Delta and say that you want to take Hepatitis vaccine, it is given to you free. We’ve graduated over 200 ICT professionals, we are now facing the completion of the University of Uyo Students’ Hostel.

"Currently, we are about to complete the 1000 bed space hostel in the University of Uyo; we’ve completed the 64 flats police quarters. You can imagine all these projects being abandoned when billions of Naira had been sunk into it. We make sure that those things that were vandalized, we have put them back and are due for commissioning,” he said.

Earlier in his remarks, the Vice Chancellor, University of Abuja, Professor Abdul-Rasheed Na’allah, noted that issues of development are vital to the survival and competitiveness of Nigeria. He wondered why development has been difficult to the country saying, "a greater part of Nigeria today still complains of unavailability of portable drinking water and other basic amenities, noting, with the huge resources, the country cannot showcase anything tangible as a nation".

Professor Na’allah further stated that the creation of NDDC was fundamental strategy to move Nigeria forward and called on the various stakeholders to join hands in developing the region, which he said will in turn, lead to the development of Nigeria and national unity.

In his remark at the occasion, Minister, Niger Delta Affairs Ministry, Senator Godswill Akpabio, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Sir Etekamba Umoren, thanked President Muhammadu Buhari, for being committed to the yearnings of Niger Deltans, saying, "the recent commissioning of the NDDC headquarters and other life-touching projects are testimonies to the fact that President Buhari is committed to the development of the region".

Highpoint of the event was the presentation of awards to deserving personalities, which included the NDDC Interim Administrator, Mr. Effiong Akwa and the Niger Delta Affairs Minister, Senator Godswill Akpabio

Minister, Niger Delta Affairs Ministry, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has described the coronation of His Highness, Nasir Ado Bayero, as the Emir of Bichi, less than 24 hours after he gave out his daughter, Zahra in marriage, as an uncommon grace and mercy from almighty Allah.

Akpabio stated this while answering questions from newsmen in Bichi, shortly after the coronation of the Emir.

A statement by the Minister's Chief Press Secretary, Jackson Udom, quoted him saying, "the events of yesterday and today are clear indications of God's grace and mercy upon the newly installed Emir.

"His coronation coming less than 24 hours after giving out his daughter, Zahra in marriage to Yusuf Buhari, the son of the president is indeed an uncommon grace."

" I wish His Highness a fruitful and peaceful reign on the throne of his forebears. I pray that his tenure ushersg in the most peaceful and productive era in the history of Bichi in particular and Kano State as a whole.

"His late father lived building bridges across Nigeria and it is my prayer that he continues in that same spirit of fostering lasting unity and peace among Nigerians no matter their political or religious persuasions, " he stressed.

*** Receives Report From Forensic Audit Security Committee
***Lauds Members For A Good Job

Minister, Niger Delta Affairs Ministry, Senator Godswill Akpabio, on Monday formally declared that the final report of the Forensic Audit into the administration of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), since its inauguration, has been submitted.

Akpabio made the disclosure while receiving in audience, members of the NDDC Forensic Audit Security Committee, in his office, led by Admiral Bamidele Oluwagbamila.

Speaking shortly after receiving the security report, the Minister thanked members of the committee for their commitment to the success of the exercise, saying" I am delighted to receive your report on this exercise which started in 2020 and ended in July 2021. Though I have not looked at the nitty gritty of the report, but from my observation in your speech, I want to thank you for taking this national assignment seriously."

This assignment, he stated "was not from us, even though the Ministry supervised it. This assignment was from the President and Commander-in-Chief, Mohammadu Buhari. I want to, on his behalf, thank the security committee."

The former Senate Minority leader noted that," from what you have said, it is very clear that you were not only committed to your work, but you also carried out your assignment with professionalism. As you said earlier, there was no incidence concerning the field nor lead auditors at their residences, as well as the communities, either group or individuals. You were able to endear yourselves to the host communities and they, in return, gave you all the support in your assignment."

According to the former governor of Akwa Ibom State," to the Glory of God, the Forensic Audit Report is ready for submission to Mr President. It was also important that we also hear from the Security Team, thank them for their comportment, candor and discipline throughout the exercise."

Akpabio noted that "the Forensic Audit couldn't have been successful without the involvement of the security agencies. We equally thank you for deeming it necessary to also give your independent report on what you saw, how you saw it and what the situation is in the Niger Delta Region, apart from providing security.

"If there are areas I need to take extracts for the Commander- in-Chief, to take further actions, I will do so. I know that history will remember you for good and what you have done. This exercise definitely is a turning point for the NDDC and the development of the Niger Delta Region," he stressed.

Earlier in his speech, the leader of the security committee, Admiral Bamidele Oluwagbamila, thanked the President through the Minister for the opportunity given them to contribute their quota to bring about the needed change in the commission saying," we are very happy to report that after almost over a year after the commencement of this assignment, that job has been successfully completed. We worked with the Auditors and provided them the right environment for them to do their job successfully".

The Naval Officer stated further, " we secured them in their hotels and the projects' site. Throughout the period, we enjoyed the support of the Ministry, which provided all the logistics needed for the job. Over 398 personnel from across the services were engaged for the exercise".

" This exercise is a big plus for the Ministry of Niger Delta. I want to congratulate the Minister for carrying it out as directed by our Commander-in- Chief. Throughout the duration of the exercise, nobody died and all the property under our care can conveniently be accounted for. Once again, it is a honour and priviledge to have worked with you in this task", he declared.

••• Your Patriotic Decision As Senate President Gave Birth To Uncommon Transformation In Akwa Ibom State- Akpabio


Minister, Niger Delta Affairs Ministry, Senator Godswill Akpabio has been described as a critical asset for the promotion of good governance.


This was the submission of former Senate President Ken Nnamani, while on a courtesy visit to the Minister in his office in Abuja on Monday.


According to the former federal lawmaker, " my brother, the Minister, represents critical asset for the promotion of good governance. His strides in office as a Commissioner, Governor, Senate Minority Leader and now a Minister have added value to the intentions of democracy."


He noted further that" his public service, demonstration of integrity is the best Nigeria can think of. I pledge my support for all his undertakings as a Minister, all his efforts at maintaining peace in the Niger Delta Region and the reshaping of the governance structure of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC)."


In his response, the Minister placed on record the contribution of the former Senate President to the Uncommon Transformation of Akwa Ibom State when he was the governor, saying," my state benefitted from the will power of your office as the Senate President, when you dropped the gavel in the hallowed Red Chambers. You were instrumental to the commencement of Uncommon Transformation of my state under my leadership."


According to the former governor of Akwa Ibom State, "through the dropping of the Gavel, you brought about the change in the perception of an Akwa Ibom child, their education status, the infrastructural development of the entire state and the living standard of our people changed for good."


He stated further that the former chairman of the National Assembly is one politician that Nigerians and non Nigerians hold in very high esteem, saying," Your Excellency, you are one Nigerian that people allover the world hold in very high esteem and you may not know. You have been able to have sons and daughters allover the country because of your openness and integrity. You are an embodiment of strength, integrity and a role model of what a man should be to inspire the younger and upcoming generations."


"This formal presentation of the book "Standing Strong" personally by you in my office, is an honour I will not take for granted. The title of the book speaks volume. It tells that we still have people standing strong in the face of challenges, while maintaining our ethics and morality. This book will inspire the next generation on how to stand strong as men of morality and integrity," he stressed.


On the entourage of the representative of the South East Zone in the APC Caretaker Committee were, his committee members, Hon Eseme Eyiboh, Head Strategy, Professor Adebayo Williams, Head External Communication and Dr Declan Okpaleke, Head Special Duties.

APC WARD CONGRESSES 2021 :
Engr. Joseph Akpan thumps-up Organizers for a smooth, peaceful and credible turn-out in Ikot Ekpene Senatorial district.

…........ Passed vote of confidence on Gov.Buni, Udoedehe , Udosen, led national and state Committees, as they all set the pace, for 2023 nextlevel development.

An illustrious US based Akwa Ibom son, who is a chieftain in the All Progressives Congress,APC, Akwa Ibom State , Nigeria , has hailed the Congress Committee in Akwa Ibom State at large , The national secretary of the party , who is a son of the soil, Sen. Akpan James Udoedehe , the state Chairman Dr.Ita Udosen and other chieftains for putting the record streight .

He made this known , while performing is civic right in his ward center Etim Ekpo Ward 5,Akwa Ibom State , on Saturday 31st July 2021.
Talking to news men at his ward center ,
The Chieftain in his own words said the Congresses were conducted peacefully in his home town and across the Local Government Areas of the State.

Sir Joe, who stated this in an interactive session with some local dailies at his ward center , Ward 5, Etim Ekpo , Akwa Ibom State, expressed gratitude to the leaders and members of the party in the State for the peaceful conduct of the Congress.
He also gave a pass mark on the Gov.Buni , Sen. Udoedehe and Dr. Ita Udosen led Committee for getting it right this time around.
Engr.Akpan also thank his people for the massive turn-out to the day's event.

Joe said: “the congress went smoothly and peaceful. He pleaded with other stakeholders and party faithfuls to accept the outcome of free and fair Ward Congress election as it will usher in a new leadership team of intellectuals to pilot the affairs of our great party at the grassroot level ”.

“ With This peaceful conduct of the Congresses, I am totally convinced that victory for the party in 2023 is sure .”
"Am glad that we will get it better this time around , because we are taking the party to the grassroot where it belongs, with a relative peace synergy among our party faithfuls" he added .

He further expressed readiness and willingness to partner with the newly elected officers , other stakholders , to move Etim Ekpo , Ikot Ekpene Senatorial district and the party to a greater height as they all support President Muhammadu Burhari next level government .

©Circle Media �

To identify and celebrate with members of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Uyo Branch during Ibom 2021 Engineering Week, the Interim Administrator of Niger Delta Development Commission, Mr. Effiong Akwa on Friday attended the Dinner and Award Night of the Society.

The Dinner and Award Night which took place at Emerald Event Centre featured Prominent Personalities including Engr. Prof. Linus Asuquo who served as Guest Speaker at the event and Engr. Mmayen Adetiba

Mr. Akwa was honoured at the event with Award of Excellence in Service based on his numerous contributions to the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Uyo Branch and Engineering profession in general

Reacting to the award, Mr. Akwa appreciated Nigerian Society of Engineers, Uyo Branch for the honour and assured to continuously support the growth of the Engineering Profession.

He said Engineers have contributed graciously to NDDC to deliver on its mandate. He stressed that several projects carried out by the Commission are handled by Professional Engineers in different fields of specialist including the newly approved Hostel for University of Uyo Students.

Akwa said NDDC is no longer a national cake where Governorship Aspirants were sent to make money for Political Campaigns.

He added that with the policies of President Muhammadu Buhari and ongoing Forensic Audit in the Commission, many projects awarded by NDDC will soon be inaugurated.

In his opening address, The Chairman Nigerian Society of Engineers, Uyo Branch, Engr. Ukeme Okpob appreciated Mr. Effiong Akwa and all the Awardees for their numerous support to NSE Uyo Branch and for contributing towards the building of National Engineering Center Annex/Branch Secretariat in Uyo.

Okpob appealed massive support for the building of the National Engineering Center Annex/Branch Secretariat in Uyo "Now that the foundation has been laid, the main work for the building has started. Please we need your support," he said.

He tasked all Engineers to continue with quality services and commended their efforts and contributions to the success of Ibom 2021 Engineering Week.

While administering oath of allegiance to the new inductees of Nigerian Society of Engineers, Uyo Branch, Engr. Okpob advised the new members to carry out their job diligently to protect the image of the society and to promote Engineering Profession.

He noted that the new members must work towards bringing innovative ideas to the engineering Profession and behave in such a way that will encourage others to choose Engineering as their career in life. The Branch Chairman congratulated the new inductees and welcomed them officially into the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Uyo Branch.

Okpob stressed that Nigeria has recorded massive improvement in Engineering Services, saying that out of 100% of collapse structures in Nigeria, less than 10% was handled by Professional Engineers.

High point of the event was paper presentation on "The Akwa Ibom Engineer and the Fourth (4th) Industrial Revolution" by Engr. Prof. Linus O. Asuquo, Director General/Chief Executive, National Matallurgical Development Centre, Jos Nigeria, (NMDC), presentation of awards to Esteemed Supporters of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Uyo Branch, donations for the building National Engineering Center Annex/Branch Secretariat, Induction of seven corporate members and 12 graduate members as well as cultural display by wives of Engineers in NSE Uyo Branch.

Other dignitaries at the Dinner and Award Nights were Engr. Dr. Abdulrasheed Babalola who represented the National President of Nigerian Society of Engineers, Engr. Babagana Mohammed, Engr. Prof. Charles Uko, Engr. Mmayen Adesiba, Engr. Etido Inyang and other top Engineers within and outside Akwa Ibom State.

- UncommonReporters

... As FG Releases N2.5 Billion For Compensations

The Minister, Niger Delta Affairs Ministry, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has appealed to protesting Niger Delta youths to vacate Section 3 of the East-West road to enable contractors commence work on Friday.

"The essence of this protest is to draw the attention of the government to the road, now we are here allow us to commence work." Akpabio said.

Akpabio, made the appeal on Thursday in Abuja, while briefing the Press after a meeting with contractors handling different sections of the road. He acknowledged the fact that the youths were right to stage a protest over the delay.

The former governor of Akwa Ibom State, disclosed that the Federal Government had released additional N2.5billion for payment of compensation to property owners along the road corridor, but regretted that the initial N4.5billion budgeted for compensation could not meet up with demands.

According to him, "the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), has also budgeted another N35 billion in support of the project", adding, "the ministry has channeled funds meant for over 304 projects into the East-West road project."

Speaking further, the former Senate Minority Leader disclosed that "the Ministry has proposed an extra-budgetary intervention for inclusion of the East-West Road Sections I-IV in the 2020 SUKUK Issuance Programme of the Ministry of Finance, Budget and National Planning and the Debt Management Office".

This, according to the Minister, is part of the efforts made by the Ministry to access adequate funding for the completion of the East-West road project.

Akpabio explained that the initial contracts for dualization of the 338km road linking Warri to Oron through Kaima, Ahoada, Port Harcourt, Ogoni and Eket Townships (Section I-IV) was initially awarded in four sections to four different contractors in 2006. “It is well known that Section I (Warri-Kaima covering km 0+000-Km. 87+400 and Section III) and Section III (Onne Port Junction – Eket covering Km. 15 + 000 – Km. 99 + 000) have been duly completed by Messrs Setraco Nigeria Limited and Messrs. RCC Nigeria Limited respectively” he added.

He maintained that the section IIIA (Port Harcourt Onne Road Junction, covering Km. 0 + 000 – Km. 15 + 000 was not part of the contract initially awarded in 2006 because it was in good condition having been dualized earlier, noting that “over time, the Port Harcourt – Onne Port Junction portion had progressively deteriorated as a result of heavy axle loading, flooding and is no longer serviceable for the current traffic volumes. Therefore, the Ministry had to award the contract for additional works to Messrs RCC Nigeria Limited to upgrade the Port Harcourt Onne Port Junction”.

He further stated that due to poor annual budgetary provisions, the contract for upgrading of Section IIIA awarded in 2014 could not commence until the Ministry paid the contractors the full mobilization Advance in 2020.

"The condition of the road deteriorated during the period of delay and there has been serious encroachment on the right-of-way initially delineated for the road.

"With the review of the initial contract scope of works and contract unit rates imperative, specific measures for addressing the contingent site conditions militating against the progress of work were scheduled by the Ministry, these include the initial design for interchange bridges at Onne Junction which is to be substituted with a flyover bridge, but due to space constraints caused by the newly constructed Power Sub-Station which cannot be relocated due to higher cost implication.

"A new flyover bridge has also been designed to replace the interchange bridge initially designed for Refinery Junction amongst others."

DON'T RUSH INTO POLITICS OF 2023 ENDORSEMENT – AKPABIO CHARGES GROUP


Minister, Niger Delta Affairs Ministry, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has charged members of the Ambassador For Voice Of Change Initiative (AVCI), to keep to their agenda of preaching peace as agent of change to Nigerians and not to rush into endorsing any politician for the office of the President in 2023.

Akpabio gave the charge when he received in courtesy, members of the group made up of Nollywood actors, Musicians and Comedians in his office in Abuja, on Thursday.

A statement by the Minister’s Chief Press Secretary, Jackson Udom, quoted the former Senate Minority Leader as saying, "I want to thank you for this laudable assignment of preaching peace and change in attitude to Nigerians. We need peace for development. I am happy to be part of this peaceful move. But let me caution here that you should not be in a hurry to adopt any political aspirant, as doing so, could derail this laudable agenda of the group".

Akpabio noted, “don’t be ashamed of what you are doing. Even your colleagues will criticize and be enemies of what you are doing. Do not expect everybody to praise you when you are doing something good, adding, “the joy you will have at the end of this peace initiative, will shock you because we all, as a nation deserve peace.”

Speaking further, the former two-term Governor of Akwa Ibom State tasked the group to ensure that the drive for a peaceful Nigeria, has to come with change of attitude, the way we relate and communicate. As entertainers, you keep the country united through your activities on stage and that is why I am always on the forefront to make sure that you are well appreciated".

Akpabio called on the group to give their support to the President saying, “President Mohammadu Buhari, is a President that is doing so much for Nigerians. He is working to put in place a lasting change for the future of this country. The rail lines, the good roads, and all other infrastructure he is putting in place are not to be used by him but by our children and those yet unborn".

In his speech, the leader of the group, Mr. Godswill Ben Kureh, commended the effort of the Minister for maintaining peace in the Niger Delta Region, saying, “your achievement as a Governor, Senator and now a Minister are enough to endear people to you and that is why we are here to tap from that wealth of experience and vision that saw you excel in those offices and the one you currently occupy”.

“You have done so well for the people of the Niger Delta and that is why we are here to solicit for your support in this task we are embarking on. Nigeria cannot move forward without peace at this point in our history. We all need Godswill to be done in Nigeria and that is why we have come for your support in this task,” he stated.

Jackson Udom
Chief Press Secretary to the Minister, Niger Delta Ministry

Deputy Secretary General of the United Nations, Hajia Amina Mohammed, has commended the effort of the Minister, Niger Delta Affairs Ministry, Senator Godswill Akpabio, on continuous peace in the Niger Delta Region, saying, “we must continue to invest in peace and not take it for granted,”

Mohammed, a former Minister of Environment, before her international engagement stated this, while on a courtesy visit to the Minister in his office in Abuja on Tuesday.

According to her, "the Niger Delta Region has a special place in my heart because I was deeply involved in the granting of Amnesty to former militants in the region by former president Umar Yar’adua. I must commend the Minister for the sustained peace in the region.”

Speaking further, the deputy UN Scribe noted that, “the UN agenda for the Nations must also be seen in the Niger Delta, and we would be very happy to collaborate with the Niger Delta Ministry, adding, "the Ministry needs very strong institutions to drive home the goals and objectives that were set by those who established the Niger Delta Development Commission(NDDC)”.

Earlier in his welcome speech, Akpabio described the visit of the Deputy UN Scribe as "home coming of someone who did a lot for the region in the area of environment and security, adding “the region that you did so much for, is today the most peaceful in Nigeria, a feat achieved through engagement of strategic stakeholders whenever we noticed any slight sign of discontent.”

Speaking further, the former governor of Akwa Ibom State said, “President Mohammadu Buhari has done so well for the region, through adequate funding of interventionist agencies, because of his committed interest in the development of the region and that was why, when the south-south governors met with the president and demanded an audit of the account of NDDC because they believed so much has been released to the agency in the past and nothing on ground to show for it, he immediately acceded to their request by ordering a forensic audit into the finance of the commission."

Akpabio disclosed further that, “the interim report on the auditing of the NDDC account is very revealing. Over twelve thousand, one hundred and twenty-eight (12,128) projects with no clear-cut ownership, were built and abandoned and they all became sanctuaries for hoodlum and kidnappers.”

“In order to stop this anomaly, we have developed within the ministry, a system called Strategic Implementation Work Plan, where whatever is on ground is captured to avoid duplication of projects, he stressed."

The president, Akpabio disclosed, "is determined to commission the East West road by next year and have just commissioned the 25year old abandoned headquarters building of the NDDC."

On calls for secession, Akpabio stated, “Let me inform you here that the south-south are not interested in any form of secession. Our stakeholders have said so repeatedly and we stand by that. Let me also call on the UN to assist the Niger Delta people in the area of security, provision of infrastructure and empowerment of our teeming youth".

Akpabio To NASS: Pass PIB Bill For Development Of Niger Delta Region With Any Percentage

Minister, Niger Delta Affairs Ministry, Senator Godswill Akpabio has appealed to the National Assembly to expedite action on the passage of the PIB Bill, and not allow the issue of percentage to be allotted to the oil producing communities to delay its passage, so as to make life meaningful for the people of the Niger Delta Region.

Akpabio made the appeal while speaking with newsmen at the Town Hall meeting on the Destruction of Oil Pipelines and Gas infrastructure, organized by the Ministry of Information and Culture at the NAF Conference Center, Abuja on Monday.

A release by his Chief Press Secretary, Jackson Udom, quoted the Minister as saying, "Let me appeal to my former colleagues in the National Assembly to pass the PIB Bill into law so that the people of the region will begin to have a new lease of life. Let them not allow the argument on the percentage delay the passage of the bill. Whatever you agree on, we will accept. At least, let us start from some where".

"It is not the percentage that matters. The bill has been there for over 20 years. I am speaking for the Niger Delta people. Let them not use the issue of percentage to delay the passage. No matter the percentage approved, we will accept it, whether 3, 4 or even 5 percent. If they use it well, we can go back to demand for an increase.

" I want the people of the Niger Delta Region to begin to see what has not happened before in their life. These are people whose ecosystem and means of livelihood have been destroyed. The people have suffered enough. If they pass the bill, it will change the economic life of the people, their life style will also change, their living standard will also improve. If the bill is passed this week, I will be very happy.

The former Senate Minority leader also said that, " I want to see most Niger Delta youths, women, the elders and children, being more educated about the environment and being more concerned about the environment and refraining from acts of vandalism. Even if they are lured, they will say no, I don't want to destroy my land because 25 years after, I will be the one suffering from the impact".

" Oil pollution affects the economy. Most of the aquatic life is gone. We have the best prawn in west Africa, which is a major source of income, but pollution of the waters is not allowing that kind of business to thrive. As a result of this, dead and poisoned fishes are allover the place, which has led to cancer and untimely death."

Jackson Udom
Chief Press Secretary to the Minister, Niger Delta Ministry

The newly installed Emir of Kano, His Highness, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero, the 15th Emir of Kano, has been described as a leader, whose elevation to the exalted position of an Emir, would bring about peace and development in Kano in particular and Nigeria as a whole.

Minister, Niger Delta Affairs Ministry, Senator Godswill Akpabio stated this while speaking with newsmen at the Sanni Abacha Stadium in Kano, shortly after the installation and presentation of staff of office to the new Emir by the Kano State Governor, Alhaji Umar Ganduje.

A release signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Jackson Udom, quoted the former Senate Minority Leader as saying, "the newly installed Emir is a chip off the old block and I know he will do his best to maintain the peace his late father stood and lived for. His installation today, is a watershed in the history of the Emirate and Kano State."

" We know the late Bayero, who was the father of the newly installed Emir, lived for his people and built bridges across the country. I also expect the newly installed Emir, to continue in that way, consolidate on his father's achievements and break new grounds for the people of Kano and the nation generally", he said.

He prayed God to give the new Emir, long life in good health on the throne of his forebears, saying" It is my prayer that the new Emir will bring to bear, in this new responsibility, his experiences gannered over the years in his public and private lives, in the handling of the affairs of the emirate and the state. God will grant him good.

Niger Delta warlord and former agitator, Chief Government Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo, has urged his fellow agitators in the region to give peace a chance in the interim.

Tompolo made the plea in a statement he signed and made available to journalists on Friday following the uneasy calm enveloping the region over the delay in the inauguration of the board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) as pledged by the Federal Government.

Recall that the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio had, after an emergency parley with stakeholders before the expiration of Tompolo’s seven-day ultimatum, promised to inaugurate the board by the end of June which appears not to have seen the light of the day.

Pleading with his colleagues on Friday, Tompolo, in the statement titled: ‘Niger Delta Agitators’ Ultimatum to the Federal Government of Nigeria: A Call for Restraint,’ warned FG to do the needful before the bubble burst.

“June 2021 has come to an end. The people of the region are yet to see any tangible move towards the constitution of the NDDC board by the Federal Government.

“The people are seriously agitated. There is palpable fear and tension in the region.

“I wish to reiterate my earlier position that, the government should, as a matter of urgency, constitute the substantive board of the NDDC to avoid unnecessary bickering and crisis in the region,” he warned.

The Ibe-Ebidouwei of Ijaw Nation said after he had reluctantly accepted the outcome of the consultative meeting, “I have done so much to keep peace in the region which some major stakeholders in the security circle are aware of.”

He went further: “I have been in constant touch with my fellow agitators in the region to give peace a chance, knowing fully well that there cannot be any meaningful development in an atmosphere of rancour and acrimony.

“As it stands now, the one thing the government must do on this issue is to be courageous enough to constitute the NDDC board.

“Government must be sincere in handling developmental issues in the Niger Delta region as the people have suffered enough, being neglected for several decades.

“The truth of the matter is that there is so much bitterness in the land owing to the lackadaisical attitude of this government in handling matters of great importance to its citizens.

“As for my follow agitators, please permit me to borrow the biblical words of Jesus Christ, that we should be wise as a serpent and gentle as a dove to continue our agitation for a better living for our people.

“We must avoid anything that may throw the only relatively peaceful region in the country now, into chaos because of government’s nonchalant attitude towards the security and welfare of its citizenry as constitutionally provided.

“The average Nigerian citizen is a government of his or her own as the citizens provide everything for themselves today.

“The government is unfair to a greater number of its citizens. The Nigerian Government must create an enabling environment for the citizens to live a prosperous and peaceful life.

“Multinational oil companies operating in the Niger Delta region are not left out in the troubles of the region. They are clearly part of the conspiracy in the marginalization of the region.

“They must perform their statutory obligations to the people of the region by promptly delivering cooperate social responsibilities to the people.

“Most of the companies are operating under the cover of the Nigerian Military, which has further exacerbated the relationship between Multinationals and their host communities.

They must do their business in a most friendly atmosphere, and not set neighbouring host communities against one another

Forensic Audit Report And Its Implementation By New NDDC Board Will Gladden The Hearts Of Niger Deltans - Akpabio


Minister, Niger Delta Affairs Ministry, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has assured the people of the Niger Delta Region that the out come of the Forensic Audit and implementation of its recommendation, which would herald the inauguration of the Niger Delta Development Commission(NDDC), would gladden their hearts.

Speaking at the Radio Nigeria morning interview program; Politics Nationwide, on Tuesday, Akpabio said," let me assure my people in the Niger Delta Region that when the report of the Forensic Audit is received by President Muhammadu Buhari, and the NDDC board inaugurated, with guidelines based on the recommendations of the Auditors, we would all be happy for it, because the Commission will become bankable and able to access international loan
facilities for development purposes."

He noted that the Niger Delta Region stands to benefit a lot from the outcome of the Audit because the Commission would be repositioned to be more productive, inorder to meet the yearning of the people of the region, saying" the NDDC after the Forensic Audit, would be more concerned with executing projects that would have direct economic benefits for the people, rather than embark on white elephant projects as was the practice in the past".

On why the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has not been involved in the Forensic Audit of the Commission, Akpabio said, " the Audit has no criminal angle for now and that is why the anti graft agency has not been invited to investigate its activities. We have not established any criminality in the process. If at the end of the audit and something criminal is unearthed, then the anti graft body would be called in to help unravel who got what and who did what."

On the emergence of Mr Effiong Akwa as the Interim Administrator of the NDDC, the former Senate Minority Leader said," the emergence of Akwa was a product of the court and not an imposition as being claimed in some quarters. Some stakeholders in the region, went to court and prayed for the sack of the Interim Management Board. The court, in its wisdom, sacked the board ordered that the most senior director should take over the running of the Commission. Akwa, at that time, happened to be the most senior director as the Executive Director, who was not affected by the court ruling."

He noted further that "contract award in the region was highly politicized with no consideration for the immediate needs of the people. Projects that had no direct positive impact on the economic life of the people were contracted out and later abandoned. The result is the countless number of abandoned projectes scattered all over the region. It became a matter of so much money in the region and nothing on ground to show for the huge budgetary allocation to the commission."

He called on the Niger Delta Avengers to give room for dialogue between it and the government, saying," the people of the region have all embraced Amnesty and dialogue in demanding for whatever affects them as a people, instead of confrontations. We need peace for development and that is the way to go."

The Poorly framed and lopsided meeting and Press Release Organized and led by Hon. Gideon Samani the National facilitator of Presidential Support Committee (PSC) Is indeed a ridicule of the whole outing of the entire committee.

Director of Political Affairs, South/South Presidential Support Committee, Hon. Frank Ossai said the purported meeting and press release has turned out to be a jamboree of a power drunk group in solidarity to the northerners in the committee.

The decisions reached by these selected few holds no water as their affirmation is never in the interest of the President who appointed Distd.Sen Godswill Akpabio as the presidential support committee National Coordinator rather of a privileged few who are constantly bankrolled by their ATM machines located in their various areas.

Presidential support Committee under the Leadership of Honourable Minister of Niger Delta Affairs task supporters to remain resolute, calm, and disregard the jamboree meeting called by these few greedy fellow with the aim of milking our treasury, as the President who appointed him has not removed or suspended him.

We however, urged our Niger-delta Nation, well wishers and lovers of the Minister and Former Governor of Akwa-Ibom to disregard the so called suspension as he remains one of the trusted frontline Minister of Mr President and he is highly committed to bringing a new political face to the Niger Delta

We hereby unanimously say that this resolution(s) must not be honoured.

AVENGERS: I WILL INAUGURATE NDDC BOARD AS SOON AS THE FORENSIC AUDIT REPORT IS SUBMITTED, ACCEPTED- BUHARI


President Mohammadu Buhari, has made the position of the Federal Government known to the Niger Delta Avengers on its threat to blow up oil pipelines, if the substantive board for the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) was not inaugurated among other demands.

President Buhari stated this in his address to the leadership of the Ijaw National Council, and other Niger Delta stakeholders, who visited him in his office in Abuja.

According to a statement by the Special Adviser, Media and Publicity to the President, Mr Femi Adesina,

"The media was Sunday awash with threats and demands by a group, Niger Delta Avengers, to embark on economic sabotage through bombing of critical oil and gas installations unless certain demands, including development of the Niger Delta, and restructuring of the Federation, were met.

"It is, however, curious that the threat was coming less than 48 hours after President Muhammadu Buhari met with the leadership of the Niger Delta and Ijaw National Congress (INC), at the Presidential Villa, and the germane issues had been responded to, especially call for restructuring of the Federation, and the inauguration of a Board for the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

"For clarity and record purposes, below is full text of the speech by President Buhari on Friday, June 25, 2021, which renders any sabre-rattling rather unnecessary:

“I warmly welcome all the Elders of the Niger Delta and particularly the National Executive of the Ijaw National Congress, under the leadership of Professor Benjamin Okaba. I thank you for paying this courtesy visit not too long after your election in April, and swearing-in last May.

“I also want to congratulate you all for your election and to add that a lot of responsibility is placed on your shoulders, especially coming from the fact that the Ijaw National Congress was almost without leadership for some time.

“As the symbol of the collective voice of the Ijaw people, which is one of Nigeria’s main ethnic groups, the existence of a focused and people oriented leadership would go a long way in articulating the demands of the Ijaw people and making sure these demands are made part of the national discourse.

“I particularly note your ten point demand to the Federal Government in your inaugural speech and assure you that this administration is frontally addressing them.

“I am equally concerned about the rate of environmental degradation in the Niger Delta and as you are aware the HydroCarbon Pollution Remediation Project has started work with remediation efforts in Ogoni land and I have directed the Minister of Environment to ensure that the projects are implemented with a high percentage of local content and inclusion of the surrounding communities.

“Similarly, the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency, under the same ministry of Environment is working to make sure that oil spills are reduced and new ones prevented. As you are also aware, all the responsible agencies of government have been directed to ensure that they enforce compliance by the International Oil Companies to international best practices.

“In addressing your call for immediate restructuring, the National Assembly whose responsibility it is to ensure that our constitution responds to the call for a restructured Nigeria, has already concluded regional consultations and as soon as they finalise the process, necessary action would not be delayed on my part.

“In the same vein, your call for creation of two additional states and more local government areas for the Ijaw people is a legislative matter, which should naturally be handled by the National Assembly and seeking concurrence at the state levels.

“I completely agree with your call to allocate operational licenses for marginal fields to Ijaw people. However, like you know, the process of granting licenses is guided by laid down rules and regulations, most of which even favour local content and local contractors. I see no reason why they should not be granted such licenses if they qualify.

“On the issue of fair and balanced appointments to reflect federal character principles, I re-affirm that this has always been my focus and would continue to be because I have always seen Nigeria as a country where everyone should be given equal opportunities.

“A contentious issue that has been a subject of discourse amongst the Ijaw people of recent has been the need for the Niger Delta Development Commission to live up to its billing by delivering the required succour to the people of the region. Based on the mismanagement that had previously be-devilled the NDDC, a forensic audit was set up and the result is expected by the end of July, 2021.

“I want to assure you that as soon as the forensic audit report is submitted and accepted, the NDDC Board would be inaugurated. However, I would like to implore you that the Ijaw National Congress should play a more active role in making sure that the mismanagement that occurred in the past is not repeated.

“I am particularly happy to note your call for promoting ownership of modular refineries by the Ijaw people and I will urge you to interphase with your sons who are involved in the processes of establishing these refineries, especially the Honourable Minister of State Petroleum Resources to actualize this quest.

“Like you well know, completion of the East-West Road is top on my infrastructure agenda and I will look to its speedy conclusion. Again, the occasional disturbance by youths in some communities along the route to construction work would require your close attention and guidance.

“Furthermore, we have made considerable progress with the construction of the Bonny to Port Harcourt Bridge.

“I am very happy with the recent affirmation of your belief in a United Nigeria and while I thank you for standing with me, I will also implore you to use your leverage in making sure that we keep working together to keep this country a united, indivisible entity, so that we can tackle our problems together and overcome our challenges together.

“I would like now to commend Professor Okaba for your emphasis on supporting the fight against insecurity by developing internal control mechanisms as well as working with other institutions in the country to address our current security challenges.

“While I thank you once more for this visit and I will continue to count on your support as we work towards resolving our current challenges.

“God Bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”



Femi Adesina

Special Adviser to the President

(Media and Publicity)

June 27, 2021

The Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, has reiterated the importance of giving opportunities to persons living with disability, in its efforts at making the development of the Niger Delta region integrative, inclusive and sustainable.

Speaking at the presentation of letters of engagement to twelve new employees of the Commission who are physically challenged in Port Harcourt, Interim Administrator/CEO of NDDC, Mr. Efiong Okon Akwa, said the Commission was determined to harness the potentials of all Niger Deltans in order to make the region a better place.

Mr. Akwa said that NDDC “is perhaps the first Federal Government agency to begin the implementation of the Act on persons living with disability which was passed into law in 2019,” adding: “This shows that we are human and we understand and care for others, thereby impacting the lives of people in the region, regardless of their physical condition.”

The NDDC Boss stated: “It is our view that this gesture the government has shown to you will prompt you to extend same to your friends and relatives. We want you to be ambassadors of this government, this Commission and the people of the Niger Delta, so as to serve as a source of motivation to others.”

Mr. Akwa gave credit to President Muhammadu Buhari for directing the agency to intervene, not only in physical infrastructure projects, but also in human capacity building.

“By passing the disability rights law the government,” he said, “has committed to ensuring that people living with disability enjoy their human rights. This is to instil a sense of responsibility, recognition and pride, as well as ownership, in persons living with disability. That is why we are intervening in your lives, and in the lives of all Niger Deltans.”

Mr. Akwa noted that the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, who forwarded government’s approval for the engagement, had stated that “President Muhammadu Buhari is aware of what you are passing through and is doing his best to ensure that government stands by you. It is not your choice to live with disability.”

He added: “It is a condition you found yourselves in. But it will not stop you from adding your quota to the development of the Niger Delta, Nigeria and humanity.”

Also speaking at the ceremony, the Director of Human Resources of the Commission, Barr. Silas Anyanwu, said that "this is an epoch-making event, because the NDDC has shown, as perhaps the first government agency to give employment to persons living with disability, that we are mindful of all Niger Deltans, and that we are prepared to work with everyone to develop this region.”

He called on them to give their best in their duties, stating that while the Commission will provide every support to make their work easier, “no one would receive any special favours or considerations. It is important for you to know that we expect the best from you, because to whom much is given, much is expected.”

The regional chairman of the Joint Association of People Living with Disability, Mr. Simon Bidei, thanked the Commission for coming to the aid of persons living with disability, noting that “it was the first of its kind.”

He stated: “NDDC has made history today, by giving us the opportunity to serve. We are grateful to President Muhammadu Buhari, to the honourable minister and the interim administrator for remembering us and knowing that we are living with capability.”

He called on other organisations to emulate NDDC, noting that the Commission had taken into consideration the needs of persons living with disability in constructing the new headquarters building.

Minister, Niger Delta Affairs Ministry, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has noted that arrogance on the part oil companies and absence of Corporate Social Responsibility led to militancy in the Niger Delta Region.

He also reiterated the commitment of the President Mohammadu Buhari- led administration to changing the negative narrative in the region.

Akpabio said this while receiving in courtesy, the Charge d' Affaires a.i of the Embassy of Ireland in Nigeria, Mr Conor Finn, in his office in Abuja on Thursday.

According to the Akpabio, " arrogance and absence of Corporate Social Responsibility by oil operators in the region, which caused the indigenes their source of livelihood, led to militancy in the region. It was a situation where the owners of the land ate crumbs that fell off the table of the investors, while the investors lived in opulence with no regard or concern for the living condition of the host community."

" Oil spillage caused serious economic hardship to the people of the Niger Delta, whose major source of income are fishing and farming. As a result of this unbearable condition of the host community, President Buhari is more than determined to change the negative narrative for the good of the people, through the implementation of the recommendations by the Forensic Auditors", he said.

He noted that the government at the centre, " is ready to listen to the demands of the people on the constitution of the board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). Things are certainly not not going to remain the same again. We will no more encourage the moving of individual's pockets forward, but we will now insist on moving development and empowerment of the people forward. The first and second sets of the Forensic Audit reports have already been submitted and we are awaiting the final report which would form the basis for the take off of the new board".

Akpabio, who described his visitor as a man with passion for the people of the Niger Delta Region, thanked him for the interest of the Irish government in the affairs of the people and assured him of the readiness of the Ministry to partner SACA to touch those who actually needed to be touched in the region."

Speaking further, Akpabio called for a change of attitude from the people of the region by insisting on provision of sustainable infrastructural projects as source of livelihood, instead of engaging in militancy. "Oil companies and the attitude of our people are also the problem of the region."

" The NDDC, as an interventionist agency was over the years turned into an avenue to finance political ambition of some politicians, while neglecting the core mandate of alleviating the sufferings of the people.", he stressed.

In his remarks, Finn reaffirmed the determination of the government of Ireland to partner with the Niger Delta Ministry for continuous peace and development in the region, he lauded Akpabio in his efforts at nipping in the bud, the activities of militants, through empowerment of the youths and provision of infrastructure.

"Let me reiterate our readiness to make ourselves available in support of the programs of the Ministry. We hope to see more effort towards alleviating the suffering of the people in the days to come.", he assured.

In his contribution, Rev Father Kelvin O' Hara, an Irish, a recipient of the Presidential Distinguished Service Award For the Irish Abroad for Peace, Reconciliation Development in Nigeria, who accompanied the ambassador said, " I feel at home in the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs than any other. My interest in the region dated back to 1990. The neglect of the area and oil spillage have over years, caused the death of several children, while investors are more interested in their profit and care less about the plight of their host community. I have great hopes in the Minister because of what he did in Akwa Ibom State when he was governor. It is a huge responsibility on the Minister and the Ministry and that is why we have to support the Ministry to assist the youths with a permanent source of livelihood and survival".

Jackson Udom
Chief Press Secretary to the Minister, Niger Delta Ministry

Godswill Akpabio, Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, says the final report of  forensic audit of  Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) will be ready by the end of July. Akpabio, who fielded questions from State House correspondents on Tuesday at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, said the final report would be submitted to President Muhammadu Buhari for implementation.The Federal Executive Council (FEC) had in February 2020 approved the appointment of a lead consultant for the forensic audit of Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).The minister said that action had been expedited on the process of constitution of the board of NDDC.“We have fast tracked the process of constituting the board; but we insist that the most important thing is not just the development of the Niger Delta region but how to reposition NDDC to ensure optimal performance as against the practice in the past.“So, the forensic audit of NDDC is on course and it is progressing very well and I am happy with the progress made so far.“And I am very certain that by end of July which is just a month and a few weeks away that the final result will be given to the president for implementation.“And in terms of the composition of the board of the NDDC, that of course, we have fast tracked the process and the National Assembly will soon get the list.“But that is not as important as the forensic audit which we are finally given a deadline which is July, that it will end.’’He said that he was hopeful that the new board would use the recommendations of forensic audit to work and reposition the commission.The minister regretted that, in the past, the headquarters of the commission was not connected to the national grid for 10 years to 15 years.“And we have noticed the fact that even the headquarters building that was started over 20 years to 24 years ago, nobody was interested.“ I think they were pursuing projects that were probably beneficial to either the staff or the management and not necessarily things that benefited the region.’’Akpabio said that the East-West road was another major area of concentration which the NDDC itself should have taken interest in.He said that he worked on federal roads when he was the governor of Akwa Ibom State.“And to the glory of God, the president has refunded the money that most of the states used in intervening in federal roads which means it was a good gesture and the president has reciprocated it by the fact that the monies were refunded to those states.“So, I think, even NDDC should have intervened in East-West road to ensure its completion because of the economic importance of the road.“Just three days ago, we had a mishap where one of the bridges had a problem; the approach to the bridge, it caused so much traffic jam in Port Harcourt for hours and we had to move in.“To the glory of God, we have repaired the damaged section of the road and traffic is flowing and we working very hard to make sure that we complete that road come next year for the benefit of the Nigerians not just Niger Delta,’’ he said.He said that his recent visit to the Niger-Delta region was not as result of pressure from any quarters but for the sake of peace in the region.According to him, the region is very critical to the economy of the country.The minister said that he had and interactive session with stakeholders in the region for purpose of the economy of Nigerian economy as the impact of any unrest in the region would affect be adverse.He added that he had set the pace by his visit to the Niger Delta as his move was being emulated in dousing the agitations in the South-East.“And I think the example I set is what is being emulated now in the South-East—that there is need for those of us in government to go back home and interact with people at the grassroots.“And then, explain things to them; so that we can stop the restiveness that we are witnessing in many zones of the country.“So, my going to creeks to meet the traditional rulers and ex-agitators was in the interest of not just the security of the region but the peace of the region.“And by implication, to ensure that critical infrastructure that can affect the economy of the nation were not tampered with; I think it was a step in the right direction,’’ he said. (C)NAN

Minister, Niger Delta Affairs Ministry, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has lauded President Mohammadu Buhari, for approving the establishment of the Federal University of Science and Technology for the South South region of the country.

Akpabio, who thanked the President for reaffirming his commitment to making education key in his development agenda for the youth, through the establishment of technology based tertiary education, pledged the continuous peace and support of the region to his administration.

In a release by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Jackson Udom, the former Senate Minority Leader said," let me, onbehalf of the people of the South South region, thank President Buhari, for approving the establishment of the University of Science and Technology in the region and to be sited in Akwa Ibom State."

Akpabio noted that, " the two new universities of Science and Technology have been established to compliment others already sited in other parts of the country, adding, let me also assure our President of the continuous peace and support of the region for the success of his administration".

Jackson Udom
Chief Press Secretary to the Minister, Niger Delta Ministry

By Kehinde Aigbogun

"I came in peace and in peace, I leave you!" These were the words of the Minister of Niger Delta and supervising Minister of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Senator Godswill Akpabio, shortly after taking the wind off the sail of what would have been another Armageddon in the Niger Delta region.

The Niger Delta region, which has known relative peace in the last few years, was about to go up in flames for the umpteenth time, following the proclamation of a seven-day ultimatum to the Federal Government by Chief Government Ekpemupolo aka Tompolo over the failure of the government to inaugurate a substantive NDDC Board.

In fact, to use Tompolo's words, the rage of the Niger Delta region was about to be awakened. The ex-warlord had, on May 31, said: “I wish to call on Mr. President, members of the National Assembly and security agencies to work towards the constitution of the substantive board of the NDDC, within a few days, to avert a total breakdown of law and order that will equally affect crude oil exploration and exploitation activities in the region.

“I hereby proclaim a seven-day ultimatum starting from the date of this publication to inaugurate the substantive board of the Commission.
“Senator Akpabio’s temporal (sic) reprieve from the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) protest is a child’s play compare (sic) to what is to come in a few days. He is about to be awakened to the rage of the Niger Delta region."

Tompolo had gone ahead to accuse Senator Akpabio and the Presidency of running the show and undermining the commission, claiming that the Forensic Audit embarked upon by the government was aimed at strangling the NDDC.

But rather than take offence with the false accusation and go on the defensive, as the Forensic Audit embarked upon by the Federal Government is to chart a new and better path for the NDDC Board and not to criminalize anyone or strangle the NDDC, Akpabio opted for peace even in the face of wrong accusations.

For those conversant with Audits, the outcomes are expected to provide a direction and a window of opportunities for the future rather than dwelling on the past, unless of course, if there are questions that need answers.

Words from within the government circles have also indicated that the President is expected to give the new NDDC Board its terms of reference from the recommendations of the Forensic Audit so that it could better serve the people of Niger Delta.

With the threats from Tompolo premised on wrong assumptions, however, the cloud of uncertainty gathered and with that came rumbles of a storm that would have, again, thrown the Niger Delta into another needless crisis that will affect the peace of the region, throw its 17 million residents into panic and badly hit the nation's oil production and by extension its already troubled economy.


But before the ship of crisis could sail, Akpabio, the man of peace stepped in. The former governor of Akwa Ibom, in a move described by several commentators as exhibition of extraordinary courage in the interest of Nigeria, embarked on an unscheduled visit to Tompolo's country home in Oporoza, Gbaramatu Kingdom, Delta State on June 3, in the company of Delta State deputy governor and other key figures.

The objective of the visit, which has been described as courageous albeit suicidal, was to thaw the ice and avert another major face-off between Niger Delta militants/Tompolo and the Federal Government after the rumbles of 2016 and 2017, when the ex-militant was sought by the EFCC and the destructive days of the Niger Delta Avengers, as well as many other insecurity threats in the axis, which not only threatened the peace of the region but also resulted in several losses.

Of equal significance was the consideration of the implications that renewed hostilities in the region would have on the economy of the country and especially the effect they would have on the Niger Delta region and its people.

Among other things, renewed hostilities against oil facilities in the region would have resulted in the cancellation of the Amnesty Programme, which could leave about 30,000 beneficiaries stranded and pushed back into militancy.

Without the peace-building effort of the former Senate Minority Leader, an outbreak of hostilities would have also pushed the Niger Delta into more woes, bearing in mind that the region is yet to recover from the mass exodus of International Oil Companies and subsequent relocation to Lagos, which resulted in increased unemployment, low patronage for business owners and decreased Internally Generated Revenues for Niger Delta states.
Another round of hostilities would have spelled doom for the already troubled region, if not result to full-blown war.

As a patriotic Niger Deltan and a highly detribalised Nigerian, who has over the years, demonstrated uncommon passion for the well-being of the region and the country, Akpabio embarked on the eight-hour journey on the high sea to the creeks of Gbaramatu, where even the most valiant would dread to tread.

While the meeting was held behind closed doors, the result has come into the open: there is consensus building, which has led to continued peace in the Niger Delta. Tompolo has come out to suspend the ultimatum, which lapsed two Sundays ago.

The Forensic Audit will go on as planned while the substantive Board of the NDDC will be inaugurated at the end of that exercise.

Though many observers of events in the Niger Delta believe that the ultimatum and threats from the Tompolo camp were predicated on rumour and false allegations, and that they should not have been dignified as to gain ascendancy in the public space, as they were misguided, Akpabio's peace initiative remains commendable.

For these observers, mostly of Niger Delta descent, the failure of the Tompolo camp and other agitators to ask questions of previous governments who let down the people of the Niger Delta through several uncompleted and abandoned projects, including the NDDC Headquarters, and many others, call to question the claimed patriotism behind the issuance of ultimatum on the NDDC Board.

One of such observers, Hope Ebipade, a lawyer, said: "The action of the Niger Delta Minister is highly commendable. The trip to Oporoza was extraordinary patriotism in action. The former governor demonstrated uncommon courage in the interest of Nigeria by embarking on that trip to foster peace, though the ultimatum should not have been issued or dignified, as it was based on false premises.

"We all know that the forensic audit of the NDDC is imperative due to the deep-seated corruption at the Commission over the years. The audit, in the end, will be in the interest of our region, so I expect all well-meaning indigenes of Niger Delta to support it".

The question we should ask is why issue an ultimatum over the inauguration of the NDDC Board when there are other germaine issues affecting the region? It is on record that the Amnesty Programme has no interim administrator, yet no one is issuing an ultimatum.

Rather than focus on that, the agitators chose to direct their ire at President Buhari over the appointment of Akwa Effiong, as interim Administrator of NDDC, a move that is meant to ensure quality service delivery at the Commission pending the inauguration of the substantive Board."

Another commentator, Godsday John said: "We thank God for an uncommon leader like Akpabio. That singular act of seeking peace and consensus averted a major crisis that could have led to a war in our region. What is going on in the South-East between the Army and agitators from that zone is an indicator of what would have been."

Today, as a result of former Governor Akpabio's bravery and acquiescence with the unpopular views of renowned American professor, Michael Dediu, that "if you want peace, prepare for peace," everyone is a winner over the NDDC Board matter that would have precipitated war.

The peace of the South-South geo-political zone is intact at a time when all other five zones are facing one insecurity challenge or the other. But for the peace initiative, the fragile peace in the country would have been further threatened and everyone knows how volatile the Niger Delta could be when it comes to face-offs over matters of interest to the region.

Also, thousands of youths whose future has become assured as a result of the invaluable roles being played by the Amnesty Programme will not be thrown into gloom. The Amnesty Programme to ex-militants could have been halted if the boys returned to targeting oil installations and countless families would have had their hopes dashed.

More importantly, the economy of the country will not take another hit at this period when the country is already troubled as a result of the global economic situation, with oil exploration at least continuing unhindered.

Yes, everyone came out a winner following Akpabio's Olive Branch, but the biggest winners are certainly the people of Niger Delta, who can now look forward to an NDDC that is better positioned to serve their interest after 21 years of tending to the interests of a few.

The over 17 million people of the oil-rich zone and, indeed, all Nigerians can also heave a sigh of relief that, by the action of one man, who chose to travel the road of peace, an unnecessary carnage has been averted. Though for Akpabio, the road of peace and patriotism is not strange; he travelled through familiar paths as governor of Akwa Ibom State for eight years, where he arrested youth restiveness with insightful and visionary initiatives in agriculture, youth engagement and massive employment creation, not many people expected a Minister to risk everything to visit Gbaramatu kingdom.

If they did, not a lot of people expected this outcome, which has made the people enamoured with Senator Akpabio, who has been unnecessarily vilified for taking bold initiatives to reposition the Niger Delta Ministry to serve the people better.

With peace brokered and the continued peace being enjoyed in the Niger Delta and by extension Nigeria following Akpabio's bold move, one is reminded of the concluding lines in Robert Frost's poem, Road Not Taken. "Two roads diverged in a wood, and I- I took the one less travelled by, and that has made all the difference."
Aigbogun writes from Port Harcourt

Minister, Niger Delta Affairs Ministry, Senator Godswill Akpabio has, for the umpteenth time reiterated the commitment of President Mohammadu Buhari, to the welfare of the people of the Niger Delta region, in the area of infrastructure.

Akpabio made the remarks during an emergency meeting with contractors handling the various sections of the East West road led by the new Managing Director of the Reynolds Construction Company (RCC), Engineer Nader Yusuf, on Thursday.

According to the Minister, " the current administration under the leadership of President Buhari is totally committed to the provision of quality infrastructure for the people of the Niger Delta Region and that is why when we received a report on the damaged Aleto bridge, at km 6+500 on the East West Section 111(A), by Eleme, Onne Junction was impassable and causing hardship for commuters, the President approved the immediately repairs of the portion."

Akpabio revealed that "the construction of the road which started in 2006 was abandoned for about six years due to human and natural challenges, but since my assumption of office in 2019, the present administration which is a problem solving government has mobilized resources to ensure that the East-West road is completed and commissioned by 2022”.
Speaking further, Akpabio stressed that "various sections of the road which have been in limbo over the years have attained various levels of completion and would be due for commissioning by the President soon, affirming, that issue of compensation would be addressed in no time".

He noted that the Ministry had also undertaken the construction of other roads which include Okpuala Igwurunta road Phase 1, in Imo State, Ndemili road in Delta State, Umueze road in Rivers State and Otuo Afuze road in Edo State, which have all been completed and ready for commissioning by the president.

In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Dr. Babayo Ardo reaffirmed that the Ministry have been working on the East-West road for the past two years and all efforts have been geared towards the completion and commissioning of the road before the end of the first quarter of 2022 as directed by the President.

The Managing Director, RCC Nigeria Limited, Engineer Nader Yusuf in his response, stated that there were insinuations that sand mining around the river bank affected the foundation of the Aleto Bridge.

He explained that the Engineers would ascertain the real cause of the damage and carry out concrete repairs to aid free flow of traffic on the affected portions of the road. Yusuf however, assured the Minister that Engineers would move to site immediately to make the road motorable for road users.

The Minister, Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio's genuine effort at sustaining peace in the Niger Delta region has been commended and described as legendary.

In a press statement made available to newsmen in Abuja, National Development Group for Peace, with headquarters in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital, stated that, "rather than vilify Akpabio for making the trip through the creeks, he should be commended and encouraged to do more for the peace of the region".

The statement which was signed by Comrades Oluwagbemiga Akinmade and Peter Koko, President and Secretary respectively, noted " let us place on record the uncommon effort of the Minister of the Niger Delta, towards sustaining peace in the oil producing region of the country. This effort must be encouraged and commended by every lover of peace and development."

"The visit of the Minister to the hinterland of the Niger Delta, because, despite obvious dangers such trip posed, Akpabio braced the odds in order to achieve peace for the nation. Rather than vilify the Minister, we think the nation should rise to salute this rare courage.

" Let us state here without any fear of contradiction, that if not for the courage Akpabio had, to visit the region through the creeks, in order to achieve one purpose; Peace in the zone, no one knows what would have become of the zone today, particularly, when the 7 day ultimatum given the Federal Government and his Ministry to put in place a substantive board for the Niger Delta Development Commission(NDDC) remained only three days.

" It is on record that after Akpabio's visit and meeting with the critical stakeholders in the region and the assurance he gave them at the parley, the Niger Delta region has continued to enjoy peace, which is a major ingredient for development."

"However, we call on President Mohammadu Buhari, through his Minister of Niger Delta, to keep to his promise of reconstituting the NDDC board on or before July 2021, as promised during the meeting ,in order to sustain peace in the area", the statement concluded.

President Mohammadu Buhari and Minister, Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio's effort at sustaining peace in the Niger Delta region has been lauded.

In an advertorial published in the Vanguard of Thursday, former chairman, Egbema- Gbaramatu Communities Development Council and former APC Senatorial Aspirant in Delta State, High Chief Michael Johnny, said, "I understand that the purported seven days ultimatum was to compel the Federal Government and Senator Godswill Akpabio to constitute the substantive Board of NDDC, but, the Oporoza meeting had a different agenda"

"However, I pass a vote of confidence on Senator Godswill Akpabio for the courage to visit Oporoza, which shows his commitment towards sustenance of the prevailing peace in the region."

Chief Johnny stated further that, " I understand that Senator Akpabio accepted to embark on that journey to Oporoza because he(Akpabio) does not want the disruption of IOCs operations and attacks on oil installations"

He also passed a vote of confidence on President Mohammadu Buhari, while appealing to the president to approve the appointment of members of the NDDC board without further delay, saying, "I urge the president to be fair and just in the appointment of the new board".

"The events of the last few years and weeks all over the world have shown that life means nothing without God and every passing day we live, we should glorify the Lord."

Those were the words of the Minister of Niger Delta Ministry, Senator Godswill Akpabio, while speaking at the birthday Celebration Mass presided over by the Auxiliary Bishop of the Catholic Arch Diocese, Abuja, Most Rev Anselm Umoren, organized to appreciate God for keeping his wife, Unoma Godswill Akpabio to witness her 50th birthday.

Akpabio, who read from book of 2nd Corinthian Chapter 2 Vs 4-11, went down memory lane on how his wife went into comma, was medically pronounced dead by the doctors.

"But at the point at which I had lost hope on her making it, the Lord showed me, my children and the family mercy by bringing her back to life and that is why we have no reason not to thank God for preserving her life five years ago."

Earlier in his Homilies, Rev Father Pius Aniekop, charged the children of God on the need always thank God. " Don't be tired of giving thanks to God. Thanksgiving is a condition for answered prayers. Our sufficiency and what we are come only from God"

Prayers for good health and long life for Mrs Akpabio were offered by the husband, children, members of the family and personal aides of the Minister

The Interim Administrator of the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, Mr. Efiong Akwa, says the Commission will support the Nigerian Institute of Management, NIM, in providing a platform for management training in the Niger Delta region.

Akwa spoke when a delegation from the NDDC Chapter and Rivers State Branch Executive of NIM paid him a courtesy call at the Commission’s headquarters in Port Harcourt.

The NDDC Chief Executive Officer assured the NIM delegation that the[font=Lucida Sans Unicode][/font] NDDC would contribute to the success of the South-South summit of the organization slated for August this year.

He said: “We will do our best to encourage our staff to be part of the NIM to tap from its managerial wealth.”

The NDDC boss said that as an interventionist agency, the Commission would support the NIM in providing the platform for the training and improvement of management staff.

Akwa observed that NIM was one of the foremost professional institutions in Nigeria, stating: “Indeed, it could be said that NIM gave birth to other professional bodies in the country. The contributions of NIM cuts across several sectors in the society.

“Members of NIM play strategic roles in different organisations, including the NDDC, where they have been crucial to the successes we have achieved.”

Akwa assured the NIM delegation that the partnership that existed between the two organisations in the past would be improved upon.

He affirmed that the NDDC has stabilized after many years of poor performance, giving the credit to President Muhammadu Buhari and the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio.

The leader of the NIM delegation and Chairman of the Rivers State Branch of NIM, Mr Christian Abu, applauded the NDDC Interim Administrator for bringing stability to the interventionist agency, stating: “It takes a man with a high level of management prowess to restore stability to a system such as the NDDC.

“We want to encourage you to continue to pilot the ship of the NDDC in the right direction.”

Abu remarked that NIM had enjoyed a very robust relationship with the NDDC and that was why it created a chapter in the Commission.

He appealed to the NDDC to sponsor members of the NIM to attend important conferences which would help them in enriching their knowledge. “We need your staff, who are our members to attend NIM programmes,” he said.

The Rivers State Chairman of NIM informed the NDDC boss that the South South zone of NIM was organizing a zonal summit in August, which would be attended by over 1,000 professionals.

Abu appealed for support from the NDDC in the area of logistics, particularly in the movement of its members.

One of the council members of NIM and a former NDDC Executive Director Projects, Engr. Beniah Ojum, congratulated the NDDC Chief Executive Officer for his role in the successful completion of the new NDDC headquarters at the Marine Base area of Port Harcourt. He applauded Akwa for bringing some level of stability in the Commission, which he said had contributed to the peace in the Niger Delta region.

June 9, 2021.