The Movement for the Survival of the Izon Ethnic Nationality in the Niger Delta (MOSIEND) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and stakeholders to focus on institutional stability, continuity, performance, and public interest in the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). MOSIEND President, Dr Kennedy Tonjo West, signed a statement highlighting the importance of stability for the development of millions across the Niger Delta. The group recognises the efforts of the leadership team appointed by President Tinubu in 2023 to reposition the Commission.
MOSIEND noted that under the present leadership, the NDDC has prioritised completing abandoned and legacy projects, implemented institutional reforms, engaged stakeholders, and improved administrative processes. The group also cited reforms in governance, procurement, and digitalisation. These efforts align with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda. By focusing on continuity rather than abandoning inherited projects, the NDDC has taken a significant step towards addressing historical challenges in the region.
The group emphasised that the decision to complete projects initiated under previous administrations is crucial for a region that has experienced several instances of abandoned projects and disrupted development programmes. MOSIEND described this approach as a departure from past challenges and an important step towards achieving long-term development goals. The statement highlighted that this institutional culture is what the Niger Delta has long demanded.
MOSIEND recalled that between 2015 and 2023, nine Managing Directors served at the NDDC, illustrating the disruptive effect of leadership instability on long-term development planning. The group cautioned against allowing political disagreements or administrative considerations to translate into institutional disruption. MOSIEND stressed that the Niger Delta needs a stable NDDC that can complete projects, earn public confidence, and implement long-term development programmes.
The group commended the Commission’s sustained engagement with various stakeholders, including state governments, traditional institutions, ethnic nationalities, youths, women, professional groups, and development partners. The outcome of the NDDC’s 2025 stakeholder conference, where support was expressed for the existing Board and Management, showed that stakeholders are increasingly interested in performance and continuity.
MOSIEND, however, clarified that its position should not be seen as opposition to accountability or legitimate scrutiny of the Commission. The group urged those with concerns about the NDDC’s performance, administration, or accountability to pursue them through appropriate institutional and statutory mechanisms. MOSIEND emphasised the importance of stability and continuity in achieving development aspirations in the Niger Delta region.
MOSIEND’s call for stability and continuity at the NDDC reflects the group’s commitment to ensuring that development interventions in the Niger Delta region are effective and sustainable. The group’s statement underscores the need for a stable and accountable NDDC that can deliver on its mandate and meet the development needs of the region.
Key points
- MOSIEND urges President Tinubu to prioritise stability and continuity at NDDC
- The group cites efforts of NDDC leadership to complete abandoned projects and implement reforms
- MOSIEND emphasises the need for a stable NDDC to achieve long-term development goals in the Niger Delta region
