The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas Company (NLNG) are set to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote sustainable development in the Niger Delta region. The Managing Director of NDDC, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, expressed the commission’s commitment to adopting the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model to secure additional funding for vital development projects and initiatives.
Dr. Ogbuku highlighted the significance of partnerships in driving the development of the Niger Delta region and maintaining peace. He praised the successful collaboration between NDDC and Shell Petroleum Development Corporation in building the Ogbia-Nembe Road in Bayelsa State, which serves as a model for future projects.
The NDDC welcomes the NLNG’s interest in collaborating to promote the development of the Niger Delta region. The focus is on fostering partnerships that will bring prosperity and uplift the lives of the region’s inhabitants.
Andy Odey, the General Manager of External Relations and Sustainable Development at NLNG, emphasized the importance of the Niger Delta’s development to the NLNG’s operations in the region, which have been ongoing for more than two decades.
Opinion
The collaboration between the NDDC and NLNG to drive sustainable development in the Niger Delta region is a promising step towards addressing the region’s long-standing development challenges. By adopting the PPP model and seeking private partnerships, the NDDC can access additional funding and expertise, crucial for implementing impactful projects. The successful Ogbia-Nembe Road project demonstrates the positive outcomes that can be achieved through such collaborations. It is essential for both parties to prioritize the region’s holistic development, focusing on socio-economic progress, environmental sustainability, and improved livelihoods for the people of the Niger Delta. This strategic partnership signifies a commitment to driving positive change in the region and holds the potential to make a significant difference in the lives of its residents.