Niger Delta Minister Consults Governors to Revitalize South-South Region

Engr. Abubakar Momoh, the Minister of Niger Delta Development (MNDD), has initiated consultations with state Governors to prioritize the rehabilitation of the crucial road that interconnects numerous states in the South-South region during his tenure.

Momoh commenced these consultations with a courtesy call on Governor Umo Baasey Eno of Akwa Ibom State, as part of his ongoing tour of states under the Ministry of Niger Delta Development.

During the meeting, Minister Momoh emphasized the importance of garnering support from all Governors in the region, especially if the contract for the East-West Road comes under the direct supervision of the Ministry of Niger Delta Development rather than the Federal Ministry of Works.

He reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to rapidly developing the Niger Delta region, pledging that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration would persist in its efforts to enhance infrastructure, human capacity, and economic growth in the area.

Minister Momoh lamented the region’s ongoing security and infrastructure challenges, noting, “The Niger Delta Region faces persistent problems of security and poor infrastructural development. It’s regrettable that the economic hub of Nigeria, the Niger Delta, still lacks proper road networks in the South-South region.”

In response, Governor Eno expressed the pain felt by South-South residents who, despite being the region that contributes significantly to the nation’s resources, have not witnessed substantial development. He highlighted the environmental degradation the region has suffered.

Governor Eno also regretted that, despite the existence of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for many years, the region has yet to experience the true impact and benefits of this interventionist agency. He commended President Tinubu for his inclusive approach to governance, working across party lines.

Minister Momoh also paid a courtesy call on His Royal Majesty Ediden Sylvanus Effiong Okon Jp at his palace, where he assured stakeholders of the administration’s commitment to improving the lives of Nigerians and the country as a whole under the “Renewed Hope” agenda of President Tinubu.

During his tour, the Minister inspected a completed two-kilometer road in Ikot Udoe Town and the State office of the Ministry, which is still under construction. He expressed satisfaction with the quality of the completed road and the ongoing construction of the State office.