Lucky Obukohwo, Reporting
The Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Engr Abubakar Momoh, has called for a better partnership between his ministry and the Imo State government.
He said the partnership would help Niger Delta Development Commission’s (NDDC) to execute projects well in the state.
Engr Momoh made the call when he visited the governor of the state, Hope Uzodinnma in Government House in Owerri.
Engr. Momoh said he was in the state to see how both can work together.
“Here, we are to inspect ongoing projects of the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs and the Niger Delta Development Commission.
“We solicit greater partnership and cooperation of the governors of the nine states of the region”, Momoh said.
Momoh, while clearing the air on the misconceptions between the ministry of Niger Delta Affairs and the NDDC, said that they are never in competition.
“The Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs and the NDDC are never in competition with the states.”
Momoh added: “They are in partnership for the progress and development of the region.”
He admitted the existence of many challenges, especially in the area of abandoned projects.
As a result, he promised that his ministry and the commission are on course to change the narrative.
The minister informed the governor about the scheduled meeting of the National Council on Niger Delta Affairs, between April 16 and 18, 2024.
In the meeting, the progress and prosperity of the Niger Delta region would be in focus.
Also, Momoh made mention of the ongoing flyover project, the 3R government of Governor Uzodimma has recently embarked upon.
Furthermore, he thanked the governor for the good works he is doing in Imo State.
He commended him, especially, on road infrastructure and other legacy projects.
On his part, the Imo State governor, Hope Uzodinnma, expressed delight in receiving the minister and his team in Imo State
He commended Momoh on the changes he has so far initiated in the ministry since he assumed office.
The governor requested mop up of all federal allocations meant for the region.
Hence, deploy them appropriately to ensure that the area is given what is due and appropriate, in terms of infrastructure.
He promised to continue to support and partner with the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, the NDDC and other agencies under the ministry, to achieve the expected goals.