NDDC, Army, DSS Strengthen Synergy For Development, Security

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has taken a significant step towards strengthening collaboration with the Nigerian Army and the Department of State Services (DSS).

This, according to Apostle Abasiandikan Nkono, the Representative of Akwa Ibom State on the Governing Board of the NDDC, was to set a template for development and security.

Speaking at the conference hall of the 2 Brigade Cantonment of the Nigeria Army, Mbiokporo, on Thursday, Apostle Nkono highlighted that projects and programmes of the Commission will not succeed in a clime ravaged by insecurity, and sought the Army’s assistance in that regard.

The NDDC delegation in a group photograph with senior personnel of the 2 Brigade Cantonment

The State Rep stressed that such strategic partnership will promote economic development and prosperity in Akwa Ibom State and the larger Niger Delta region.

He emphasized the determination of the current board and management of the Commission to reposition the NDDC for greater results and give it a new face in synchrony with the renewed hope agenda of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration.

“Let me announce to you that the NDDC as led by Chairman, Dr Chiedu Ebie and the Managing Director, Chief Samuel Ogbuku, Executive Directors, State Representatives and other regional representatives are poised to reposition the NDDC for greater results in line with Mr. President’s renewed hope agenda which includes the transformation of NDDC and the Niger Delta region.”

“We will offer the necessary support to the Nigeria Army. Project intervention is our key role. Regional development cannot be achieved in an atmosphere of rancour and bitterness,” he added.

He saluted the Army for always being an ally of his office since his assumption of duties, and congratulated the 2 Brigade on its recent relocation to the permanent camp at Mbiokporo.

Brigadier General J. Ibrahim, Commander of the 2 Brigade, assured the NDDC of hundred percent support from the army, acknowledging the rich history of their partnership.

He expressed appreciation for the NDDC’s intervention in projects, emphasizing the army’s commitment to a secure and serene environment in Akwa Ibom State.

The NDDC delegation also met with A. O. Adetuberu, the State Director of the Department of State Services (DSS), in his office in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State capital.

Apostle Nkono expressed his appreciation for the crucial role the DSS plays in maintaining security and stability in Akwa Ibom State. “We recognize the importance of a harmonious relationship between our agencies and appreciate your efforts in ensuring a secure environment for sustainable development,” he said. “Our visit aims to strengthen our partnership and explore ways to collaborate in a way that benefit the state and the Niger Delta region.”

Apostle Nkono with the A. O. Adetuberu

A. O. Adetuberu, the State Director of the DSS, welcomed the NDDC delegation and acknowledged the Commission’s efforts in developing the region. “We appreciate your kind words and recognize the importance of a harmonious relationship between our agencies,” he said. “We are committed to supporting your initiatives and ensuring a secure environment for sustainable development. We believe that our partnership will make a positive impact in the region and bring better days for the people of Akwa Ibom State and the entire Niger Delta.”

On the Commissioner’s entourage were:
Mr Emmanuel Isong, Deputy Director; Mr Brown Robert, Deputy Director; Mrs Ndifreke Essien, Assistant Director; Mrs Dorathy Umoren, Assistant Director; Mr. Utibe Ikot, Senior Manager, Planning, Research and Statistics; Mr Ediongsema Akpabio, Special Assistant to the Commissioner, among others.

Interactive sessions between the NDDC team and officers of both security organizations also took place.

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