The Ministry of Niger Delta Development, led by Engr. Abubakar Momoh, recently held a crucial interactive session with the House Committee on Niger Delta.

This meeting marked the inaugural interaction between the ministry and the committee of the 10th Assembly. 

The primary objective was to foster mutual understanding and cooperation to tackle pressing issues affecting the Niger Delta region.

The interactive session, facilitated by the House Committee on Niger Delta, showcases the dedication of lawmakers to comprehensive development and efficient governance in the region.

The discussions during the session centered on the imperative of collaboration between the Ministry of Niger Delta Development and the House Committee on Niger Delta to address the multifaceted challenges confronting the region. 

Both parties emphasised the need for synergy in tackling issues such as infrastructure development, environmental degradation, erosion control, and human capital development.

A key highlight of the session was the deliberation on bringing the East West Road back under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Niger Delta Development.

The committee members expressed their support for this initiative, recognising the importance of efficient management and timely completion of this critical infrastructure project.

Additionally, the lawmakers highlighted the pressing issue of erosion, ocean encroachment, and land reclamation affecting states in the Niger Delta region. These environmental challenges pose significant threats to the livelihoods and sustainability of communities in the area.

The Minister, Engr. Abubakar Momoh, reiterated the ministry's commitment to implementing proactive measures to address these challenges and protect the region's ecosystem.

During the session, Engr. Abubakar Momoh emphasised the Ministry's challenges stemming from the fragmented structure of responsibility for key initiatives. Specifically, he highlighted issues such as environmental pollution control and the management of the amnesty program, which are not under the Ministry's direct purview.

He said funds allocated for addressing environmental pollution are housed within the Ministry of Environment, hindering the Ministry of Niger Delta Development's ability to effectively tackle environmental challenges in the region. Similarly, the management of the amnesty program falls under the National Security Adviser's jurisdiction, creating a logistical burden for the Ministry.

Despite these challenges, Engr. Abubakar Momoh reiterated the Ministry's commitment to fulfilling its mandate and ensuring the welfare of Niger Delta residents. However, he stressed the need for a more cohesive approach, advocating for the reallocation of these programs and agencies to the Ministry of Niger Delta Development to better address the region's unique challenges.

Both the Ministry and the House Committee lamented the inadequate budgetary allocations to address the diverse needs of the Niger Delta region. They emphasised the urgent need for increased funding to facilitate the implementation of developmental projects and programs aimed at enhancing the socio-economic well-being of the people.

The Ministry of Niger Delta Development reiterates its commitment to working collaboratively with the House Committee on Niger Delta and other stakeholders to achieve sustainable development and prosperity in the Niger Delta region.