The NDDC calls on Niger Delta traditional rulers to collaborate in promoting sustainable development, peace, and community-driven growth across the region.
The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has called on traditional rulers in the Niger Delta to intensify collaboration and support the commission’s efforts in promoting sustainable development across the region.
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The appeal was made by NDDC Managing Director Dr. Samuel Ogbuku during the Annual Strategic Consultative Feedback Forum for Traditional Rulers in the Niger Delta, held in Port Harcourt. The forum was represented by NDDC Executive Director, Corporate Governance, Ifedayo Abegunde.
Dr. Ogbuku described traditional rulers as “essential partners” in the development process, highlighting their role in providing guidance, mediating conflicts, and representing community interests. He stressed that sustainable development in the Niger Delta cannot be achieved without the input and support of monarchs.
“You, our esteemed traditional rulers, are the genuine voices of your people and the guardians of their hopes and dreams. This ongoing collaboration will yield more meaningful outcomes and help us achieve peace, prosperity, and inclusive development for the region,” he said.
The forum emphasized peace as a prerequisite for development, with leaders urging monarchs to form conflict management committees, engage in project planning, and work closely with government agencies and civil society groups.
Key speakers, including King Felix Mujakperuo of Delta State, King Sergeant Awuse of Emohua, and Alfred Diette-Spiff, Amayanabo of Twon Brass, highlighted the importance of involving traditional rulers in project conception, formulation, and execution to ensure effective delivery and sustainable outcomes.
The monarchs also called for constitutional recognition, noting that traditional rulers historically played critical roles in governance and development planning.
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Suggestions for economic transformation included turning the Niger Delta into an industrial hub focused on marine industries, construction, agriculture, and fisheries, inspired by technically driven development models in countries like Britain.
