Former Governor of Cross River State, Donald Duke, has emphasized the urgent need to prioritize the health and welfare of the Niger Delta’s people amidst the region’s vast hydrocarbon and gas reserves.
Duke made this appeal during the Niger Delta Stakeholders Summit 2024 held at the Obi Wali International Conference Centre in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. He highlighted the critical role of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) in fostering collaboration with state governors and addressing numerous abandoned projects that hinder the region’s progress.
“The needs of human beings are limitless, but the health and well-being of our people are paramount. The NDDC must maximize its impact to ensure the vitality and prosperity of the Niger Delta region,” Duke stated.
Duke described the summit as a crucial opportunity to evaluate the productivity of the populace and advocate for concerted efforts to enhance living conditions in the Niger Delta. He stressed that the abundant natural resources in the region should be leveraged to improve the quality of life for its inhabitants.
“The hydrocarbon and gas reserves in the Niger Delta are among the richest in the world. However, the region’s potential can only be fully realized if we address the fundamental issues affecting our people, particularly in health and welfare,” he said.
He also pointed out that the neglect of numerous projects in the region has been a significant setback, and called for a renewed commitment to completing these projects to spur development. Duke urged the NDDC to work closely with state governors to create a comprehensive plan that prioritizes the well-being of the Niger Delta’s residents.
“It’s essential that we not only initiate but also complete projects that have the potential to transform lives. The NDDC must work in synergy with the state governors to identify and prioritize these projects, ensuring that resources are utilized efficiently and effectively,” Duke added.
Furthermore, Duke called on all stakeholders, including government agencies, private sector players, and civil society organizations, to collaborate in building a sustainable and prosperous future for the Niger Delta. He emphasized that a collective effort is necessary to overcome the challenges facing the region and to create an environment where the people can thrive.
“The future of the Niger Delta depends on our ability to work together towards a common goal. We must set aside our differences and focus on what truly matters – the health, welfare, and prosperity of our people,” Duke concluded.
