TheCable

Umana Okon Umana, minister of Niger Delta affairs, says his ministry is taking steps to review the audit report of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). 

He spoke while receiving Ita Enang, former senior special assistant to the president on Niger Delta affairs, on Tuesday, according to a statement issued by Patricia Deworitshe, the ministry’s director, press. 

According to the statement, Umana said the ministry “is taking steps to review the already concluded audit report of the NDDC as it would provide a proper foundational template for the implementation and execution of projects in the region”.

He emphasised the commitment of his ministry to partner with major stakeholders and development partners to ensure the development of the region. 

Commenting on oil theft in Niger Delta, he said although complicated, no option would be excluded in tackling the menace. 

The minister added that efforts are ongoing to maintain peace and tranquillity in the region.

Umana promised to support efforts, initiatives and programmes that would lead to the ministry’s achievement of its objectives and mandate.

Sharon Ikeazor, minister of state, ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, on her part, said there should be effective coordination of the ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) to promote developmental projects in the region.

“The region would be highly interested in aqua-culture, therefore, we would coordinate and research intervention partners and agencies that have been doing a great job in the Niger Delta region without the knowledge of the ministry for the sustainability of the development of the region,” she said. 

In 2019, Buhari ordered a forensic audit of the NDDC’s operations from 2001 to 2019.

The directive came amid allegations of fund mismanagement levelled against Kemebradikumo Pondei, the then-acting managing director of NDDC, which led to his sack.

The forensic report revealed that N6 trillion was approved within the 18-year period under review. 

Buhari had said the process would soon usher in new management and board for the commission.