Speaking at the NDDC Board Inauguration at the Ministry of Niger Delta Development's Conference Room, Mr. Ebie stated that the Commission will accomplish more when cooperation and harmony are present throughout the development process.
In order to stay focused on our growth objectives, the Board will respect and work with important regional stakeholders, he said. We will carry out legacy projects in accordance with a thorough needs analysis. In order to utilize positive and realistic perspectives, we will also actively pursue strategic alliances and partnerships with opinion leaders, professionals, community leaders, and development partners.
The people of the region and Nigeria in general place a high value on trust, transparency, and accountability, all of which can only be achieved by effective communication with key stakeholders in the performance of our tasks.
"The President's motto of "Renewed Hope" will serve as the Board's pedestal. We will reflect on the goals and vision of the 23-year existential journey of NDDC, bringing it into line with contemporary reality and administration goals. This strategy will highlight the unmet needs of the Niger Delta people, point out the obstacles facing the commission, and give practical answers.
"We recognize the sincere efforts of those who came before us, who at different points in time contributed to the infrastructure and human capital development of the Niger Delta region." However, during our confirmation hearing at the National Assembly, it was made clear that there are still gaps, particularly with regard to legacy and signature initiatives. This highlights the necessity of further initiatives and reforms that are oriented toward the demands of the populace.
We shall work in concert with the National Assembly, the Presidency, and the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs to develop plans that will methodically direct our actions and efforts in carrying out our mandate.
In order to help us usher in a new era of vitality, hope, peace, and sustainable development for the region, we sincerely ask for the assistance and goodwill of stakeholders and the people of the Niger Delta.
The new board of the Niger Delta Development Commission has been cautioned by Minister of Niger Delta Development, Engineer Abubakar Momoh, to perform or face dismissal. He made this threat at the board's inaugural speech.
At the same time, Abubakar pressed the recently appointed board to alter the perceptions of the commission.
He clarified that any board that does not meet the current administration's performance measurement criteria will be shown the way out.
He continued, "You also need to understand that this administration is very different from previous since there will be extensive oversight and monitoring required in order for us to fulfill our obligations.
"Mr. President, as you are aware, the Permanent Secretary and I signed a performance bond with you two weeks ago. The commitment that we made to each other has deliverables linked to each of the eight presidential priorities.
In addition, he claimed that much like ministers, board members would have to sign performance bonds.
He did, however, clarify that this will take place during a suggested retreat for the executive team and NDDC board members.
Therefore, it's quite important because the President is taking this very seriously. We will occasionally be required to submit our reports, and Mr. President will also organize a committee to oversee the operations of each ministry and agency.
"I believe I want you to put this one out of your mind so you will know exactly what is expected of you when you start working."
Momoh commented, "We are all aware that over time, there have been a lot of complaints about NDDC," regarding the need to alter the unfavorable perception of the Commission.
"I would also like to take this occasion to argue that the narratives need to be changed this time around.
"With all of the negative things spoken about the commission, let us try our best to clarify that under Mr. President's administration, Senator Bola Tinubu's leadership in the ministry, and your operation at that level, all of the negative things said about the NDDC have changed.
And as for NDDC, let me just say that there are a good deal of unfinished projects and a good deal of debt there.
He went on to say that board members ought to consider it their duty to advance the area.
"Because you are all from the Niger Delta, and you should be extremely concerned about the progress of that area," Momoh remarked.
In addition, Momoh pressed the board to finish unfinished projects that were dispersed throughout the nine states that comprise the commission.
"I think that when you go back to work, you should first look around and see projects like this and finish them," he remarked.
In addition, he asked the board to examine itself, adding, "Let us focus on those projects that will give us name by the time you start project execution."
Additionally, he made a plea to the new administration to use "very small amount, not more than N30 million" to reduce the commission's debt to its contractors, particularly the local contractors.
"For this reason, we feel that it is important that you are advised from the start about the necessity of working in unison with the management and board members. You must ensure that you deliver and that it is documented in your name that the NDDC was changed during your tenure," he said.
"Let me also advise you, you will be working as a team," he continued. It should go without saying that you must collaborate. Cooperation is required of you. Everyone needs to be aware of their role.