UAE, NDDC Join Forces To Boost Niger Delta Development

ABUJA, NIGERIA – October 17, 2024 – The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) have taken a significant step towards collaborative development in the Niger Delta region, agreeing to establish a joint committee to solidify their partnership.

The decision came after a productive meeting between the UAE Ambassador to Nigeria, Salem Al-Shamsi, and an NDDC delegation led by Managing Director Dr Samuel Ogbuku at the UAE Embassy in Abuja.

The meeting saw a strong commitment from both sides to work together on key development areas, including Information Communication Technology (ICT), education, health, agriculture, and youth development.

Ambassador Al-Shamsi expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting the UAE’s willingness to support the NDDC in its ongoing efforts to improve the region’s infrastructure and socioeconomic conditions.

“We are happy with this visit and the opportunity it has given us to explore areas of cooperation and support,” he stated. “We appreciate the robust relationship between UAE and Nigeria.”

The Ambassador also noted the UAE’s commitment to strengthening ties with Nigeria, underscoring the recent resumption of Emirates Airline operations between Lagos and Dubai.

Dr. Ogbuku, in turn, emphasised the NDDC’s commitment to Public Private Partnerships (PPP) and welcomed the opportunity to collaborate with the UAE.

He particularly highlighted the need for support in equipping the NDDC’s Regional Specialist Cardiovascular and Orthopedic Hospital in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

“As part of our commitment to expanding the frontier of the NDDC’s Public Private Partnership, PPP, I welcome the opportunity to meet with UAE officials to foster collaboration in health, education, as well as oil and gas,” said Ogbuku.

The joint committee will be tasked with developing a framework to guide the implementation of specific development projects and programs.

Both parties expressed their anticipation for the positive impact this partnership will have on the Niger Delta region.