The Rivers State Government, Southern Part of Nigeria, has called for the establishment of effective mechanisms to monitor and implement resolutions reached at the 2026 Niger Delta Law and Development Summit, stressing that meaningful development can only be achieved when policies and laws are translated into concrete actions.
Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara made the call during the opening ceremony of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Law and Development Summit 2026, held at the EUI Event Centre in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital.
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The governor was represented by the Deputy Governor of Rivers State, Prof. Ngozi Odu, addressing participants drawn from across the Niger Delta region. He emphasised that sustainable development requires more than the formulation of policies, noting that effective implementation, accountability and good governance are critical to achieving lasting progress.
He commended the NDDC for reviving the Law and Development Summit after an 18-year hiatus, describing the summit’s theme, “The Role of Law in Driving Sustainable Development in the Niger Delta”, as timely and relevant considering the region’s developmental challenges and aspirations.
The governor reaffirmed the commitment of the Rivers State Government to supporting initiatives that promote justice, economic growth, infrastructural development and the overall well-being of the people of the Niger Delta.
“I praised the management and staff of the NDDC for their contributions to regional development through infrastructure projects, healthcare interventions, youth and women’s empowerment programmes and other initiatives aimed at improving living conditions across the Niger Delta,” Fubara said.
According to him, law should not merely exist as a framework for regulation but should serve as a powerful instrument for justice, equity, development and shared prosperity.
He urged stakeholders to continue promoting peace, security, social inclusion and constructive dialogue as essential foundations for sustainable development in the region.
Earlier, Chairman of the NDDC Governing Board Barrister Chiedu Ebie highlighted efforts by the commission to overcome longstanding challenges through innovative and strategic approaches.
He said the commission had adopted creative measures to navigate complex operational issues, resulting in improved internal governance, enhanced efficiency and accelerated development programmes.
“The commission’s renewed focus on accountability and institutional reforms has repositioned it to better serve the needs of the people of the Niger Delta.” Ebie noted.
In his remarks, the Managing Director of the NDDC, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, described law as the bedrock of every civilized society and underscored the importance of building strong institutions capable of driving sustainable development.
“The commission has shifted from a transactional approach to a transformational management model. The durable progress can only be achieved through strong institutions rather than dependence on individuals.” Ogbuku stated.
Delivering the keynote address, former Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice in Rivers State, Mr Henry Ajumogobia, examined the critical role of law in fostering sustainable development, environmental protection and social justice.
He observed that despite the Niger Delta’s immense contribution to Nigeria’s economy through its vast oil and gas resources, the region continues to grapple with environmental degradation, poverty and underdevelopment.
Ajumogobia called for stronger institutions, stricter enforcement of existing laws and greater commitment from stakeholders to address the region’s challenges and unlock its full developmental potential.
The summit brought together legal experts, policymakers, development practitioners, government officials and other stakeholders to explore how legal frameworks can be leveraged to advance sustainable development and improve governance across the Niger Delta region.
Participants expressed optimism that the deliberations and resolutions emerging from the summit would provide a roadmap for addressing longstanding developmental concerns and promoting inclusive growth throughout the region.
