Pauline Onyibe 
The Managing Director of Niger Delta Basin Development Authority, (NDBDA), Prince Ebitimi Amgbare, has regretted that the Niger Delta, known for its vast natural resources and significant contributions to Nigeria’s economy, is currently facing numerous challenges, including environmental degradation, unemployment and underdevelopment.
Speaking on Thursday in Abuja during a courtesy visit to Senator Ede Dafinone, representing Delta Central Senatorial district and Senator Joel Onowakpo Thomas, representing Delta South Senatorial district, representing the two catchment areas of the Authority in Delta State, Prince Amgbare emphasized the importance of strategic collaboration between the NDBDA and the senators to address these concerns effectively.
The Niger Delta, he said, has suffered extensive environmental damage due to oil exploration and other industrial activities proposing joint efforts to clean up polluted areas, restore the ecosystems and implement sustainable environmental practices.
Discussing on need critically alleviate the livelihoods of the indigenes in the Niger Delta area, he solicited the support of the duo to actualize the mandate of the Authority aimed at improving the living standards of the people within the catchment areas.
He said ” I am here to solicit your support, to improve the living standards of our people within the catchment area. We solicit your support, to help us actualize our mandate.”
“My call for environmental restoration and protection, agricultural development, infrastructural improvement, youth empowerment, skill development and community involvement in decision-making processes is to ensure that projects are tailored to their specific needs and have long-term sustainability.
“With collaborative efforts on the above areas, there is hope for a better future for the indigenes of Delta South and Central, ultimately leading to a more prosperous Niger Delta region.”
Responding, the two senators expressed their commitment to working closely with NDBDA and other stakeholders to implement these initiatives.
They acknowledged the vital role of the Niger Delta in the national economy and the need to prioritize the welfare of its people.
The senators represent 18 LGAs of the catchment areas of the Authority’s mandate.
