By Rhoda Godwin
The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering sustainable development in the Niger Delta through strategic Public-Private Partnerships (PPP).
This position was reiterated by the Commission’s Managing Director, Samuel Ogbuku, during a meeting with the management team of Ibom Air, led by its Chief Executive Officer, George Uriesi, at the airline’s headquarters in Uyo.
Ogbuku, who headed a delegation of top NDDC officials, noted that the engagement forms part of the Commission’s broader efforts to deepen collaboration with private sector players to drive infrastructure development and enhance investor confidence across the region.
He highlighted ongoing partnership projects, including the 70.75-kilometre Omadino–Okerenkoko–Escravos Road and bridges in Delta State, being executed in collaboration with the state government and Chevron Nigeria Limited. He also referenced past and current projects such as the Ogbia–Nembe Road, delivered through a partnership with Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited, as well as ongoing collaborations with Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas on multiple road and bridge projects, including those in Okrika, Kaa-Ataba, and Bonny.
According to Ogbuku, aligning efforts between government institutions, the NDDC, and private investors is key to transforming transit corridors into drivers of economic growth. He added that prioritising local content and engaging indigenous contractors would further strengthen the economic impact within host communities.
In his remarks, Uriesi described partnerships as central to Ibom Air’s growth strategy. He emphasised the airline’s vision of developing a regional aviation hub capable of boosting transportation, tourism, and commercial activities throughout the Niger Delta.
The meeting underscores a shared commitment by both parties to leverage collaboration as a tool for sustainable development and economic transformation in the region.
