From Owen Akenzua, Asaba
Coalition for Good Governance and Economic Justice in Africa has commended President Bola Tinubu and the Minister of Niger Delta Development, Engr Abubakar Momoh, for midwifing peace in the region through active participation and collaboration of all stakeholders such as traditional rulers, community leaders, oil companies and non-governmental organisations.
The group gave the commendation on Monday at a press briefing while assessing the one-year achievements of President Tinubu in office in relation to the Niger Delta region.
In a speech entitled ‘How Stakeholders’ Engagement in the Niger Delta Stemmed Restiveness and Improved Oil Output in the Region,’ Zonal Coordinator of the coalition, Dr Emomotimi Bebenimibo said “we commend President Tinubu for his leadership and the efforts of the Minister of Niger Delta for achieving this feat.
“We want to state that the minister came prepared for the job and knew exactly what the issues were when he assumed office. His immediate shuttle round the entire states of the region, meeting with former President Goodluck Jonathan, elder statesman and Ijaw leader Chief Edwin Clark, paramount traditional rulers, former militant leader, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, Alhaji Mujahid Dokubo, among others, was a major strategy that carried the stakeholders along in the scheme of things and resulted in improved oil production and a reduction in restiveness.
“We also want to commend the president for hosting traditional rulers and other stakeholders from the region in Abuja, an initiative of the minister. We understand that Mr President has started implementing the promises he made to the royal fathers during the meeting. This is commendable and a testament to his renewed hope mantra.
“Although we also noticed the efforts of the ministry in the area of youth empowerment and training, commissioning of major projects such as the electricity substation in Benin City and Okitipupa, commissioning of road projects and several bridges in Nembe, Bayelsa State, and in Akwa Ibom among others, one thing drives all of this development: peace and increased oil output.
“We want to commend the efforts of the minister and the board and management of the Niger Delta Development Commission for the harmonious working relationship between them, the focus and commitment to the betterment of the region, zero tolerance for corruption and prosperity for the people.
“However, we want to state that we will continue to demand more. While we praise the efforts and determination of the minister, especially his stance towards the completion of legacy projects, we believe that the budget of the ministry and the commission would offer the people the maximum impact of Mr President’s promises.”
