YOUTH leaders in the Niger Delta Region today applauded President Muhammadu Buhari for vowing to rid the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) of the moral and political rot that has plagued it for so long.
The youth leaders applauded the President for steps so far taken to prevent corruption in NDDC. They declared: “We are continually inspired by Buhari’s dedication and vision to addressing development issues in the Niger Delta region’’
At a meeting in Warri, the youth leaders praised Buhari for his decision on the concluded forensic audit of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). “We appreciate every sincere effort made to achieve development in the Niger Delta region’’
They commended the President for ordering the release of outstanding NDDC funds and trial of corrupt officials, noting that this creates the momentum which can accelerate progress in the region. “The President’s directive on the completion of all viable projects, which have been abandoned by the NDDC, is a welcome development”.
Chairman of the Niger Delta Progressives Movement (NDPM), Mr. Julius Ita, told a news conference after the gathering in Warri that there was political will and good faith to guarantee the development of the region.
Specifically, the youths commended Senator Godswill Akpabio for breathing life into the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, revitalising the region, instilling a renewed sense of faith and hope and creating a wonderful legacy for Niger Delta’s future.
“Chief Godswill Akpabio represents an extraordinary example of the spirit we honour in the region’’
The youths emphasized Akpabio’s depth of commitment and leadership in the country, integrity and honest work.
The youth leaders described the remarks of the leader of another group in the region, the National Chairman of Niger Delta People’s Forum (NDPF), Chief Boma Ebiakpo as “negative and divisive”.
‘’It won’t distract or deter the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio from his focus on developing the Niger Delta region,’’ said the youth leaders.
They ordinarily would expect Ebiakpo and his sponsors to cherish Akpabio’s contribution, wisdom and energy to the realisation of the Niger Delta dream but they were surprised that the reverse is the case.
“An NDDC Board in the first half-year period will be a distraction’’ they claimed.
