From Kenechukwu Obiajuru, Yenagoa
The Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku PHD, has emphasized the crucial link between security and development in the Niger Delta region.
Speaking at the unveiling of a state-of-the-art strategic naval location in Ayakoro community in Ogbia Local Government of Bayelsa State, Ogbuku highlighted the commission’s partnership with security agencies, including the Nigerian Navy, to promote peace and stability in the region.
Ogbuku noted that the NDDC has been supporting security agencies in the Niger Delta, providing them with necessary infrastructure and resources to effectively combat crime and criminality.
He cited the example of the commission’s provision of a 90KVA solar inverter system to the Nigerian Navy to reduce their operational costs.
The NDDC boss attributed the significant reduction in crime and kidnapping in the Niger Delta to the efforts of security agencies, particularly the Nigerian Navy, emphasizing that the region has become one of the safest areas in the country, enabling contractors to work without fear of militancy and criminality.
Ogbuku highlighted the NDDC’s various projects and partnerships, including the construction of a 750-bed hostel in NDU, which is nearing completion.
He also thanked the Bayelsa State government for its support and cooperation, and reassured the Nigerian Navy of the commission’s continued partnership and support.
The projects unveiled included fully furnished administrative and accommodation blocks, fully furnished 40 man House Boat with 2 units of 100Kva Generator, 2 units of Gunboats powered by 200 HP ×2 units of Yamaha Engines each and 60 KVA solar inverter in the administrative and accommodation blocks as back up.
Others are 30Kva solar inverter installed in the 40 man House boat as back up, a full option Toyota Hilux Vehicle for operational use, a newly built operational floating jetty and Hectares of land donated to the Navy for the purpose of building a Naval school.
Also speaking, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla said that Ayakoro community is a crucial and strategic location for maritime security in the Niger Delta, given its access to the sea and economic opportunities, acknowledging that these economic activities are often hindered by security challenges, which can be addressed through collaborative efforts.
Representef by the Commander Operation Delta Safe, Rear Admiral Noel Madugu The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, has commended the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for its efforts in addressing maritime security challenges in the Niger Delta region.
Ogalla emphasized the importance of collaboration between the Nigerian Navy and other relevant agencies to tackle security challenges and promote economic growth and development.
He solicited the support of the host community in the area of intelligence sharing to enhance the operational effectiveness of the Nigerian Navy.
He thanked the management of NDDC, particularly Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, an illustrious son of Ayakoro community, for facilitating the strategic security project and other viable contributions to the people of Niger Delta.
