The Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Pastor Usani Uguru Usani has disclosed that the outcome of the just concluded Second National Council on Niger Delta had considered measures that would end the challenges of physical infrastructure, shoreline protection, security and unemployment in the region.
“We have taken into cognisance memos that have to do with physical infrastructures, youth, women, vulnerable, physically challenged, coastal line protection, peace and security.”
The Minister revealed this on Wednesday at the closing ceremony of the Second National Council on Niger Delta which took place in Akure, Ondo State.
Pastor Usani added that job creation was a major concern for the Federal Government, saying this had accounted for Government’s initiative for the revitalisation of moribund industries in the region and that the government was also expanding space for agricultural chain production so that more people can be involved in this sector to create jobs.
The Minister commended the involvement of all the participating agencies at the Council and those who presented Memos. He stressed that ‘Their opinions would guide us to foster on the frontiers of progress and development of the agenda, projects and programmes of the Ministry concerning the Niger Delta region for the benefits of those who live in the region.’
He added that this year’s Council had given the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs opportunity to ‘Take bearing from the outcome of the first National Council which took place in 2013 and to also convey the results of our appraisals of how well we have come with the implementation of decisions reached.’
The Minister reiterated that the appraisals of the 2013 Council would serve as the foundation for the new steps being taken by the Ministry in tandem with the challenges and dynamic posture of the environment of the Ministry and the Niger Delta region, which suggests a projection of ‘Where we intend to land, considering the outcome of the current Council.’
He appealed to the people and residents of the Niger Delta region to support government in its efforts to sustain peace and stability, protection of lives and properties of the people. “The worst nature of peace is better than the best attitude of violence.” The Minister emphasised.
Signed
Marshall Gundu
Director Press
14th September, 2017
