The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the Blue Economy as a strategic pathway for sustainable development, regional prosperity and international collaboration in the Niger Delta.
The Managing Director of the Commission, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, gave the assurance while hosting a former Prime Minister of Tunisia, Mr. Mehdi Jomaa, at the NDDC Guest House in Maitama, Abuja.
A statement issued by the Director of Corporate Affairs, Seledi Thompson-Wakama, said the visit was part of engagements ahead of the Niger Delta Blue Economy Investment Summit 2026, scheduled to hold in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
Jomaa, who arrived with members of his entourage, was received by Ogbuku, the Executive Director, Corporate Services, Mr. Ifedayo Abegunde, and the Director of the Abuja Liaison Office, Mrs. Mary Nwaeke.
Speaking during the interactive session, Ogbuku described the blue economy as a key pillar of the Commission’s development strategy, noting that the Niger Delta’s vast coastal and marine assets offer significant opportunities for job creation, youth empowerment, environmental sustainability and economic growth.
He explained that the forthcoming Blue Economy Investment Summit was designed to attract investment, promote best practices and position the Niger Delta as a hub for sustainable marine and coastal development.
The NDDC chief executive stressed that successful blue economy development requires strong institutions, responsible leadership and collaboration among governments, development agencies, investors and host communities.
Ogbuku also briefed the former Tunisian Prime Minister on the Commission’s mandate and ongoing interventions related to the blue economy, including infrastructure development, environmental sustainability programmes, youth-focused initiatives and community-based projects.
In his remarks, Jomaa commended the NDDC’s blue economy initiative, drawing from Tunisia’s Mediterranean experience to highlight the importance of strategic planning, environmental stewardship and regional cooperation in harnessing marine resources for sustainable growth.
He said the engagement provided an opportunity for high-level dialogue on blue economy governance and African cooperation, while strengthening partnerships to unlock the economic potential of coastal and marine resources.
Both parties agreed that Africa’s future economic growth will increasingly depend on the sustainable management of its marine and coastal resources.
By Blessing Ibunge, Port Harcourt
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