The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has commissioned a state-of-the-art strategic naval base in Ayakoro, Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, as part of its commitment to enhancing security and promoting development across the Niger Delta region.
The commissioning ceremony, held yesterday, was graced by notable dignitaries including the Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri; NDDC Managing Director/CEO, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku; Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral I. Abbas; Flag Officer Commanding, Central Naval Command, Rear Admiral Aliyu Gaya; Commander, NNS Soroh, Commodore Omobamidele Akinbami; and several traditional leaders.
In his address, NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to the development of the Niger Delta, emphasizing that the administration prioritizes peace, security, and prosperity for the people.
“I stand here to tell the people of this region that Mr. President is a believer and lover of the Niger Delta,” Ogbuku said. “He is doing everything possible to ensure that the region is developed.”
Ogbuku explained that the choice of Ayakoro as the location for the naval base was strategic, given its history as a critical route used by kidnappers and oil bunkerers. “This location was chosen by the Nigerian Navy because it serves as a gateway for criminal activities. By securing this point, we are cutting off access to illegal oil bunkering and kidnapping routes,” he stated.
He noted that the partnership between NDDC and the Nigerian Navy underscores the link between security and development, stressing that peace is a prerequisite for progress. Ogbuku commended security agencies for their tireless efforts in maintaining peace across the region, which, according to him, has encouraged contractors to execute projects without fear.
“The Niger Delta is now one of the most peaceful regions in Nigeria due to the active performance of our security agents,” he added. “There was a time when contractors were afraid to work here, but today the story has changed.”
Ogbuku also expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for appointing competent officers who have sustained peace in the region and for giving the NDDC Board a clear mandate to reform and reposition the Commission. He highlighted several ongoing NDDC projects, including a 750-bed hostel at the Niger Delta University, Amassoma, scheduled for completion in November 2025.
The newly commissioned facility features a fully furnished administrative block, accommodation block, a 40-man houseboat with generators and solar backup systems, two gunboats, a floating jetty, communication equipment, and a Toyota Hilux for operations.
Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral I. Abbas, represented by Rear Admiral Noel Madugu, described the project as a demonstration of NDDC’s understanding of the security challenges of coastal communities and the Navy’s vital role in protecting lives and livelihoods.
Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, represented by Brigadier General Eric Angaye (rtd), commended the NDDC for supporting the state’s security initiatives, while community leader Clever Akpotu lauded Dr. Ogbuku’s leadership, noting that crime in the Ekole Creek area has significantly declined since the establishment of the base.
