Former Navy Boss Unveils 9 NDDC Security Projects In Bayelsa

Former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ikechukwu Ogalla, has commissioned nine state-of-the-art strategic security projects executed by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) in Ayakoro, Ogbia Local Government Area, Bayelsa State.

According to Seledi Thompson-Wakama, Director of Corporate Affairs, the former Navy Chief, represented by Commander of Operation Delta Safe, Rear Admiral Noel Madugu, stated that the operational facilities provided by the NDDC would significantly enhance the Nigerian Navy’s presence and security operations in the area.

Rear Admiral Madugu observed that Ayakoro’s riverfront location makes it strategically important for maritime security in the Niger Delta region.

He stated: “The event we are witnessing today demonstrates the strong collaboration between the NDDC and the Nigerian Navy, aimed at addressing maritime security challenges in this region.

“I commend the vision and commitment of the NDDC leadership for locating this security project in Ayakoro, to tackle security issues related to the maritime environment in the region.”

“The Navy will spare no effort to ensure that the intended objectives of these security projects are fully realised.”

He also requested community support in the form of intelligence sharing to improve the operational effectiveness of the Nigerian Navy.

Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Duoye Diri, noted that the Niger Delta region contributes significantly to Nigeria’s foreign exchange earnings, pointing out that most of Nigeria’s maritime domain and international coastline, outside of Lagos and within the Gulf of Guinea, lie along the coast of the Niger Delta.

Governor Diri, represented by Brigadier General Eric Angaye (Rtd.), emphasised the critical role the Niger Delta region plays in Nigeria’s oil economy.

In his address, the NDDC Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, emphasised the interconnectedness of security and development, stressing that a strong partnership with security agencies is essential for sustainable progress in the region.

Dr. Ogbuku reaffirmed NDDC’s commitment to supporting security agencies in securing the waterways. He noted that increased crude oil output in Nigeria depends on a secure marine environment, which requires ongoing collaboration with security forces.

He stated that the NDDC has a long history of providing infrastructure and other support to the Nigerian Navy, including: building jetties for naval operations, constructing schools and other infrastructure within naval bases, and assisting in the completion of numerous other projects at naval installations.

The Managing Director emphasised the necessity of collaboration to maintain peace in the Niger Delta region, asserting that development can only occur in a secure environment.

He stated: “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to the peace and development of the Niger Delta region, and he has given us a clear mandate to embark on legacy projects that will stand the test of time and positively impact lives in the region. This cannot be achieved without peace.”

“Therefore, the NDDC will continue to collaborate with security agencies to ensure sustained peace, which will usher in development.”

Dr. Ogbuku stated that under the leadership of the current Board and Management, the Commission has demonstrated its commitment to achieving President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, reflecting his concern for the development of the Niger Delta region.

Dr. Victor Antai, NDDC Executive Director of Projects, provided a brief overview of the projects, listing them as follows: “A fully furnished administrative block; a fully furnished accommodation block; a fully furnished 40-man houseboat with two 100kVA generators; two gunboats powered by 200-horsepower Yamaha engines each; a donation of hectares of land by the host community of Ayakoro for the construction of a Navy school; a 60kVA solar inverter installed in both the administrative and accommodation blocks as backup power; a 30kVA solar inverter installed in the 40-man houseboat as backup power; a full-option Toyota Hilux vehicle for operational use; and a newly built operational floating jetty.”

He said that the initiative aims to enhance maritime security in the region, addressing critical needs and ensuring the safety of both local communities and maritime activities.

The NDDC remains committed to making a difference in the Niger Delta, fostering a more secure and sustainable environment.

The Acting Paramount Ruler of Ayakoro, Chief Micah Etebi, affirmed that the projects handed over to the Navy were evidence of the NDDC’s positive impact on the people of the Niger Delta region.