NDDC, Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources to partner on power generation, development

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) says it must partner with the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources (Gas) in its quest of fast-tracking implementation of sustainable development projects and programmes that will positively impact the lives of the citizens.

Representative of Akwa Ibom State on the Governing Board of the Commission, Apostle Abasiandikan Nkono, gave the assurance in Abuja on Wednesday, when he led a delegation from the state office on a courtesy visit on the Honourable Minister of Petroleum (Gas), Obongemem Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo at his NNPC Towers office.

The Commissioner identified the ministry’s collaboration with NDDC as one which would yield dividends for Akwa Ibom State, Niger Delta and Nigeria.

He suggested that for NDDC’s quest to uplift the Niger Delta above poverty and unrest to be achieved, natural resources such as gas deposits must be harnessed and channeled into the empowerment of the people and development of the region.

“As you know, the Niger Delta is very rich in gas deposits. On behalf of the Chairman, Governing Board, and the Managing Director, I stand to say that NDDC wants a very solid solid partnership so that such untapped areas can be utilized.”

Briefing the Minister that the current NDDC dispensation has implemented various intervention programmes and projects especially in education, skill acquisition, economic empowerment, healthcare, provision of solar power and other infrastructure projects, Apostle Nkono pledged that his office, under the guidance of the NDDC head office in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, will cooperate with the Ministry in areas of mutual responsibilities and tasks.

He congratulated the Minister for performing creditably, and wished him a blissful, impactful and productive reign.

Obongemem Ekperikpe Ekpo appreciated the delegation for “the show of solidarity and cooperation.”

The Minister noted that he and his ministry understand that investing in power generation and development means investing in the present and future of the Niger Delta.

Obongemem Ekperikpe Ekpo during the courtesy visit

According to him, power generation is a cornerstone of development, and gas being one of the primary drivers in the power sector has to be properly harnessed and utilized in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu presidency.

His words: “This ministry is ready and willing to partner with the NDDC in the area of power generation. Today, we drive power with gas.

“If you institute such projects across the Niger Delta States, it would help to address the issue of power supply.

“If we fix power in this country, so many of the ailing industries would spring back to life and some of the industries that relocated from Nigeria would come back, and this would translate into generating more employment opportunities and reduction of crime.”

He congratulated Apostle Nkono on his appointment and implored him not to derail from offering an excellent service in the Commission.

The NDDC State Rep, on his part, promised to report back to the Commission.

In the Commissioner’s entourage were a Director and Assistant Director in the Commission, Engr. Evong Evong and Mrs Ndifreke Essien.

Senior members of Staff in the Ministry and aides of the Honourable Minister were also in attendance.

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