CurrentReport Blog In a bold reaffirmation of his commitment to the Niger Delta region, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, assured stakeholders of his administration’s dedication to rectifying years of neglect. This pledge was made at the Niger Delta Stakeholders’ Summit 2024, themed “Renewed Hope for Sustainable Development of the Niger Delta Region,” held in Port Harcourt.
Renewed Hope Agenda: A Turning Point for the Niger Delta
Addressing a gathering of key stakeholders, Akpabio emphasized that the Renewed Hope Agenda marks a pivotal moment for the Niger Delta. He conveyed President Tinubu’s message, underscoring the administration’s focus on unity and collective action to achieve sustainable development.
“This administration brings renewed hope and prosperity, and I believe this is the season we have been waiting for,” Akpabio stated. “It is our time to shine. To achieve lasting solutions, we must overcome disunity. Unity among the people of the Niger Delta and the entire nation is not just a choice but a necessity. Through our shared vision, we can overcome the obstacles before us.”
Key Infrastructure Projects: Prioritizing the East-West Road and Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road
Highlighting infrastructure as a critical component of development, Akpabio assured that the completion of the East-West Road is a top priority for the Tinubu administration. “The National Assembly, fully represented here today, will do everything in its power to ensure the completion of this crucial road,” he affirmed.
Additionally, the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road project is set to commence simultaneously from both Lagos and the Niger Delta, ensuring comprehensive connectivity and economic benefits for the region.
Emphasizing Agricultural Potential
Moving beyond the region’s reliance on oil, Akpabio emphasized the untapped agricultural potential of the Niger Delta, particularly in rice production and fish farming. “The Niger Delta could sustain itself with its agricultural resources,” he noted, adding that focusing on rice production would not only meet regional needs but also contribute significantly to the nation’s food supply.
He urged that the region should be recognized not just for its oil reserves but also for its agricultural achievements, positioning the Niger Delta as a diverse and resilient economic powerhouse.
A Call for Unity and Vision
In his closing remarks, Akpabio called for unity and a shared vision among the people of the Niger Delta to overcome existing challenges. He reiterated President Tinubu’s deep commitment to the development of the region, promising that the administration’s efforts would bring renewed hope and tangible progress.
