The Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr Samuel Ogbuku, has reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to advancing the Blue Economy as a strategic pathway for sustainable development, regional prosperity, and international collaboration in the Niger Delta region.

Ogbuku gave the assurance while hosting the former Prime Minister of Tunisia, Mr. Mehdi Jomaa, at the NDDC Guest House in Maitama, Abuja, as part of engagements linked to the Niger Delta Blue Economy Investment Summit 2026 scheduled to hold in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

The former Prime Minister, who arrived at the guest house with members of his entourage, was received by the NDDC Managing Director, the Executive Director, Corporate Services, Otunba Ifedayo Abegunde, and the Director, Liaison Office, Abuja, Mrs Mary Nwaeke.

Speaking during the interactive session, Ogbuku highlighted the Blue Economy as a key pillar of the Commission’s development strategy, noting that the Niger Delta’s vast coastal assets present significant opportunities for job creation, youth empowerment, environmental sustainability, and regional economic growth. He stressed that the Blue Economy Investment Summit was designed to attract investment, share best practices, and position the Niger Delta as a hub for sustainable marine and coastal development.

The NDDC Chief Executive Officer emphasised that successful blue economy development required strong institutions, responsible leadership, and collaboration between governments, development agencies, investors, and local communities.

He noted that the Commission was prioritising initiatives that align infrastructure development, environmental protection, and economic inclusion within the coastal communities of the Niger Delta.

The Managing Director further briefed the former Prime Minister on the NDDC’s mandate and ongoing interventions relevant to the blue economy, including infrastructure development, community-based projects, youth-focused initiatives, environmental sustainability programmes, and regional economic development strategies.

In his remarks, the former Prime Minister of Tunisia, Mr. Mehdi Jomaa, commended the Blue Economy initiative and expressed interest in the NDDC’s approach to regional development. Drawing on Tunisia’s Mediterranean experience, he highlighted the importance of strategic planning, environmental stewardship, and regional cooperation to harness marine resources for sustainable growth.

He said the engagement provided an opportunity for high-level dialogue on blue economy development, governance, and African cooperation, while strengthening partnerships to unlock the economic potential of coastal and marine resources.

The discussions also touched on Africa’s shared maritime heritage and the need for continental cooperation in developing blue economy frameworks that reflect African realities. Both leaders agreed that Africa’s future growth will increasingly depend on its ability to sustainably manage its marine and coastal resources.

•PHOTO: NDDC Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku (right), presenting a souvenir to the former Prime Minister of Tunisia, Mr. Mehdi Jomaa, during a courtesy visit at the NDDC Guest House in Maitama, Abuja.