Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC in Nigeria, 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.
The Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, gave the assurance while hosting the former Prime Minister of Tunisia, Mr. Mehdi Jomaa, at the NDDC Guest House in Maitama, Abuja Nigeria’s capital.
The visit formed part of high-level engagements ahead of the Niger Delta Blue Economy Investment Summit 2026, scheduled to take place in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State Southern part of the country.
The former Tunisian Prime Minister arrived with members of his entourage and was received by the NDDC Managing Director, the Executive Director, Corporate Services, Otunba Ifedayo Abegunde, and the Director of the Liaison Office, Abuja, Mrs. Mary Nwaeke.
Speaking during an interactive session, Ogbuku described the Blue Economy as a central pillar of the Commission’s development strategy, noting that the Niger Delta’s vast coastal and marine assets present immense opportunities for job creation, youth empowerment, environmental sustainability, and inclusive economic growth.
Blue Economy Investment Summit
He explained that the forthcoming Blue Economy Investment Summit was designed to attract both local and international investments, promote the exchange of best practices, and position the Niger Delta as a hub for sustainable marine and coastal development.
The NDDC Chief Executive Officer stressed that the success of blue economy initiatives depended on strong institutions, responsible leadership, and effective collaboration among governments, development partners, investors, and host communities.
According to him, the Commission is deliberately prioritising projects that integrate infrastructure development, environmental protection, and economic inclusion across coastal communities in the region.
Ogbuku further briefed his guest on the mandate of the NDDC and its ongoing interventions relevant to the blue economy, including critical infrastructure development, community-driven projects, youth empowerment programmes, environmental sustainability initiatives, and broader regional economic development strategies.
In his remarks, Mr. Mehdi Jomaa commended the NDDC for its forward-looking blue economy initiative and expressed keen interest in the Commission’s approach to regional development. Drawing from Tunisia’s experience in the Mediterranean region, he underscored the importance of strategic planning, environmental stewardship, and regional cooperation in harnessing marine resources for sustainable economic growth.
He noted that the engagement provided a valuable platform for high-level dialogue on blue economy development, governance, and African cooperation, while also strengthening partnerships aimed at unlocking the vast economic potential of coastal and marine resources across the continent.
Discussions during the meeting also highlighted Africa’s shared maritime heritage and the need for coordinated continental efforts to develop blue economy frameworks that reflect African realities and priorities.
Both leaders agreed that Africa’s future growth and resilience would increasingly depend on its ability to sustainably manage and maximise its marine and coastal resources for the benefit of present and future generations.