Rivers
N’Delta Youth Leaders Warn Against Sabotaging New NDDC
A conglomeration of youth leaders from the Niger Delta has warned those frustrating the new Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) “Project Hope” to have a rethink or face the wrath of the youths.
The youth leaders in a joint press conference in Port Harcourt, yesterday warned that any group or individuals who want to thwart the “Project Hope” scheme will be considered enemy of the Niger Delta.
Former Special Adviser to the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) on Youth Matters, Ambassador Alfred Etule, said the current plight of Niger Deltans requires cogent plan that will lift the people out of poverty.
He explained that the new Managing Director of NDDC, Dr. Samuel Ogbunku, had conceived the Project Hope as path to empower the region and the people.
Ambassador Etule expressed regrets that since the project was conceived, some big wigs driven by selfish interests are working to frustrate it.
“That project was supposed to kick start by December last year, but uptil, now, this February, we have not seen anything,’’ he lamented.
The youth leaders said those who love to frustrate good plans and development of the Niger Delta have teamed up to see how they can kill the dream of the new NDDC management, but the youths will resist them.
On his part, Comrade Adokiye Muji-Tab revealed that some communities have donated land for the projects, as it is disheartening to hear of the delay to commence the scheme.
He said, “the NDDC has good intention, and for us, this is the first time they want to get it right. The projects cover the nine States of the Niger Delta. It is so sad that we still have people who want things to be done the old way.”
Comrade Muji-Tab urged all stakeholders and youths to stand up and defend their rights. “We stand by this project with this new idea and we are grateful to the Managing Director who initiated the idea,’’ he said.
Explaining the benefits of “Project Hope”, President of Niger Delta Youth Movement, Comrade Prince Boboye Peretu stated that it covers all areas of development including technical skills and physical infrastructure.
“ The vision is to empower the region and reduce the suffering and pains of the people. It is something that will transform the area since over the years we have not gotten development yet,” he revealed.
He added that the idea is to ensure each NDDC member state focus on area of strength like agriculture, youths development, skills and empowerment.
Kevin Nengia