Senate President Godswill Akpabio has urged the Niger Delta residents to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in 2027, highlighting the administration's development-focused initiatives in the oil-producing area.
During the weekend at the grand finale of the Niger Delta Development Commission’s (NDDC) 25th anniversary celebration in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Akpabio stated that under Tinubu's leadership, the region has experienced substantial benefits.
The event attracted prominent figures such as former President Goodluck Jonathan, Senator George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation who represented President Tinubu; Admiral Ibokette Ibas, Rivers State Administrator; traditional leaders; lawmakers; ministers; and various stakeholders from the Niger Delta.
Anietie Ekong, the Special Assistant on Media/Communication for the Senate President, conveyed Akpabio's statement highlighting that "historically, the Niger Delta served as a prosperous source without any tangible benefits." He also commended projects like the Environmental Sciences University in Ogoniland and Maritime University in Okerenkoko.
He stressed the region's right to have a significant influence in national leadership and stated, "We, the people of the Niger Delta, have evaluated President Tinubu and believe he is suitable to remain in office beyond 2027..."
Akpabio also raised concerns about the instability at the NDDC, blaming frequent changes in its management for causing delays in infrastructure and social development projects.
He praised Dr. Samuel Ogbuku's leadership for remaining faithful to the Commission’s original vision and carrying out projects that benefit local communities.
He explained that internal conflicts and frequent changes in leadership have historically hindered progress: "There were numerous reasons for the issues we faced at NDDC... Each management team within the organization often plotted against one another..."
He highlighted that over 14,700 projects were abandoned due to leadership changes—a pattern President Tinubu is determined to halt by ensuring consistent management. "I commend the current management," he remarked.
Akpabio recalled that the NDDC headquarters project, which had been long abandoned, was finally completed during his time as Minister of Niger Delta Affairs.
In his comments, former President Jonathan commended President Tinubu for maintaining the existing NDDC board, emphasizing its importance for long-term regional development.
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