The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has restated its commitment to promoting the Blue Economy as a key driver of sustainable development, economic growth and regional cooperation in the Niger Delta.
The assurance was given by the Managing Director of the Commission, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, during a courtesy visit by former Tunisian Prime Minister, Mr Mehdi Jomaa, at the NDDC Guest House in Maitama, Abuja.
The visit was part of ongoing high-level consultations ahead of the Niger Delta Blue Economy Investment Summit scheduled for 2026 in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
Mr Jomaa arrived with members of his delegation and was received by Dr Ogbuku alongside the Executive Director, Corporate Services, Otunba Ifedayo Abegunde, and the Director of the Abuja Liaison Office, Mrs Mary Nwaeke.
Addressing participants during an interactive session, Dr Ogbuku said the Blue Economy remains a core component of the Commission’s long-term development agenda. He noted that the Niger Delta’s extensive marine and coastal resources offer significant opportunities for employment generation, youth development, environmental sustainability and inclusive economic expansion.
He explained that the forthcoming investment summit is designed to attract domestic and international investors, facilitate the exchange of global best practices and position the Niger Delta as a leading centre for sustainable coastal and marine development.
The NDDC Managing Director emphasised that effective blue economy development requires strong institutional frameworks, accountable leadership and close collaboration among governments, investors, development partners and host communities.
According to him, the Commission is deliberately focusing on initiatives that combine infrastructure development with environmental protection and economic inclusion across coastal communities in the region.
Dr Ogbuku also briefed the former Tunisian leader on the Commission’s mandate and ongoing programmes relevant to the blue economy, including infrastructure projects, community-based interventions, youth empowerment schemes, environmental protection efforts and broader regional development strategies.
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In his remarks, Mr Jomaa praised the NDDC for its proactive approach to blue economy development and expressed interest in the Commission’s regional development model. Drawing on Tunisia’s experience in the Mediterranean, he stressed the importance of sound planning, environmental responsibility and cross-border cooperation in maximising the economic value of marine resources.
He said the engagement provided a useful platform for dialogue on blue economy governance, sustainable development and African cooperation, while also strengthening partnerships aimed at unlocking the continent’s vast coastal and marine potential.
Discussions during the meeting also underscored Africa’s shared maritime heritage and the need for coordinated continental strategies that reflect African priorities and realities.
Both leaders agreed that Africa’s long-term growth and resilience will increasingly depend on the sustainable management and utilisation of its marine and coastal resources for the benefit of current and future generations.
