The Director General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has challenged the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to develop sustainable solutions to the economic difficulties facing the oil-rich Niger Delta region.
Speaking during the 25th anniversary celebration of the NDDC on Saturday, Okonjo-Iweala highlighted how decades of environmental degradation from oil and gas exploration have negatively impacted the region.
The WTO boss emphasized that neglect of the region's socio-economic development has fueled widespread frustration and restiveness among residents. She urged the commission to prioritize economic development initiatives that would bring lasting change to the area.
"Let me first congratulate the NDDC for the work it has carried out for the people of the Niger Delta," Okonjo-Iweala stated. "If I'm a bit critical in my speech, you know me, I mean it for good, because I think you have done a lot, but you still have a lot to do."
She recalled the history of the commission, noting, "The NDDC was established in 2000 by former president Obasanjo, as a successor to OMPADEC, which had been in operation since the days of the military government. This was in response to the cries of marginalisation and underdevelopment by the people of the Niger Delta, where Nigeria's oil and gas resources are concentrated."
The Niger Delta region has long been a paradox of wealth and poverty in Nigeria. Despite being the source of the nation's oil wealth, communities in the area continue to face significant challenges including pollution, inadequate infrastructure, and limited economic opportunities.
Okonjo-Iweala's call comes at a critical time when Nigeria is seeking to diversify its economy while addressing longstanding regional inequalities that have contributed to social unrest in various parts of the country.
Follow BenriNews on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, WhatsApp, and Telegram for more updates on this developing story.
