Tinubu reaffirms Niger Delta’s economic importance, tasks NDDC on regional development

President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed the vital role of the Niger Delta in Nigeria’s economic prosperity, describing it as “the goose that lays the golden egg,” while calling on the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to intensify efforts in transforming the region.

Speaking in Port Harcourt on Saturday during the NDDC’s 25th anniversary celebration, Tinubu—represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume—highlighted the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway as a key legacy project that will serve as an alternative to the East-West Road and unlock economic opportunities in the region.

In a statement issued by the SGF’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yomi Odunuga, the President said the project would foster trade, improve regional connectivity, and promote eco-tourism and blue economy ventures along the hydrocarbon belt.

Tinubu directed the NDDC, through the Minister of Regional Development, to complete several abandoned infrastructure projects, including the Kaa-Ataba Bridge, Okrika-Borokiri Bridge, Bonny Ring Road, Gbaregolo Roads and Bridges, and the East-West Sampou Roads and Bridges.

He praised the Commission’s leadership for recent improvements in service delivery and urged them to sustain momentum by focusing on initiatives that directly impact rural communities. The President commended the “Light Up the Niger Delta” project for reducing crime, extending trading hours, and enhancing nightlife.

Tinubu stressed the need for increased investment in youth and women empowerment, urging the NDDC to work with the Ministry of Youth Development to steer young people toward entrepreneurship and away from militancy. He emphasized that peace, security, and the rule of law are critical to long-term regional development.

The President also encouraged the NDDC to invest in agriculture, highlighting the region’s vast potential beyond oil and gas. He said agricultural development could serve as a major driver of inclusive growth and food security.

While congratulating the Commission on its silver jubilee, Tinubu called on the people of the Niger Delta to continue supporting his administration’s policies and programmes aimed at driving progress across the country.