The Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, has expressed its willingness to collaborate with a Nigerian music ambassador, Mr Damini Ogulu, better known as Burna Boy, to drive development in his hometown of Ahoada West Local Government Area of Rivers State and across the Niger Delta region.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by the music icon to the NDDC headquarters in Port Harcourt, the NDDC Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to fulfilling its mandate to develop the Niger Delta region.
He assured that the Commission would construct the road leading to the artiste’s community and implement other developmental projects, as directed by the President, to improve living conditions across the region.
Ogbuku advised the music star to use his global influence to develop the Niger Delta by investing in the region and hosting events in Port Harcourt, noting that such initiatives would boost the local economy. He emphasised the need for Burna Boy to serve as a worthy ambassador for the Niger Delta and a source of inspiration for the younger generation, adding that his music resonates with diverse audiences.
He stated, “I am happy that you came to identify with the Commission. If not for the fact that you know that NDDC provides succour, you would not have come. We have heard your request, and we need to partner because this relationship will be symbiotic. Let us not run away from our region; bring your popularity home so that the Niger Delta can benefit from your personality.”
Ogbuku further described Burna Boy as one of the biggest assets from the Niger Delta, stressing that his success should translate into broader prosperity for the region. He assured that the Commission was willing to partner with the artist in his activities and ensure that development reached his community and other parts of the Niger Delta.
In his remarks, Burna Boy reiterated his commitment to developing his hometown and expressed confidence that collaboration with the NDDC would bring much-needed transformation to the area.
He sought the Commission’s intervention to address critical infrastructure deficits in his community, including the lack of access roads, healthcare facilities, and potable water. He explained that his visit with his team was to partner with the Commission to advance sustainable development in the area.
Also speaking, his father, Mr. Samuel Ogulu, commended the NDDC leadership for its ongoing efforts to transform the Niger Delta region and expressed appreciation to the Managing Director for his proactive approach to development.
Present at the courtesy visit were the NDDC Executive Director, Finance and Administration, Alabo Boma Iyaye; the Executive Director, Corporate Services, Ifedayo Abegunde; and other Directors of the Commission.
