Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, announced plans to establish a dedicated Directorate for Niger Delta security within the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA). This initiative aims to address the unique security challenges of the region more effectively.
Ribadu shared this development during a keynote address at the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Stakeholders Summit in Port Harcourt. Represented by Mrs. Osaretin Grace, a senior adviser in ONSA, Ribadu emphasized the Federal Government’s commitment to collaborating with regional governors and the Presidency to make this initiative a reality.
He highlighted the significant contributions of the Niger Delta, which accounts for about 75% of Nigeria’s foreign exchange earnings, underscoring its critical role in the country’s Blue Economy development. He also noted the region’s socio-economic challenges, including oil theft, pipeline vandalism, artisanal refining, sea piracy, and youth militancy, which have impacted Nigeria’s crude oil production.
“Prior to 2024, Nigeria was allocated a production quota of 1.8 million barrels per day (bpd) by OPEC. However, actual production stands at slightly below 1.4 million bpd, leading to a deficit of 400,000 bpd,” Ribadu stated.
Ribadu conveyed President Tinubu’s concerns over the underperformance of federal agencies in addressing the socio-economic issues and stability of the Niger Delta. He emphasized the need for a collaborative policy and intervention framework to meet the country’s crude oil production quota and stabilize the region.
“The proposed policy aims to resolve existing conflicts and transition toward a more stable, harmonious, and nationally integrated environment for the people and communities in the region,” Ribadu added.
He outlined that ONSA is currently consulting and gathering data to assist President Tinubu in prescribing policies and enacting laws for a holistic and coordinated approach to these issues. The policy envisions a strong kinetic security approach to deter oil theft, artisanal refining, sea piracy, and armed militancy, while promoting national harmony and integration.
In his opening remarks, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, represented by his deputy Chinyere Akimaru, emphasized the summit’s importance for regional progress. He called for NDDC to prioritize environmental sustainability, social responsibility, and economic viability in all projects.
Mr. Chiedu Ebie, Chairman of the NDDC Governing Board, highlighted the alignment of the commission’s programs with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. Ebie noted that the board embraced a ‘Transiting from Transaction to Transformation’ strategy to fulfill its regional mandate effectively.
Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, Managing Director of NDDC, provided a status update, focusing on infrastructure, education, economic empowerment, healthcare, and social welfare. He emphasized that the summit aims to gather insights from stakeholders to formulate strategies for sustainable development and economic progress in the Niger Delta.
