NDDC managing director Samuel Ogbuku has reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to the mass street and road lighting across the Niger Delta.

The initiative, known as ‘Light Up the Niger Delta’, is being implemented in Abia, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, Imo, Ondo, and Rivers.

Mr Ogbuku disclosed this in a statement on Thursday.

Mr Ogbuku explained that the project aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ for the Niger Delta.

He said the initiative involves installing solar-powered streetlights across the region as part of a broader strategy to address crime, promote peace, and create a conducive environment for residents.

Mr Ogbuku noted that the initiative stems from a needs assessment, which revealed that in many communities, the root cause of their agitations was not merely the absence of water or school buildings.

The NDDC boss stated that the adoption of solar-powered streetlights reflects NDDC’s commitment to clean energy, which illuminates streets and mitigates the effect of climate change.

He reported that the initiative has garnered widespread commendations from beneficiary communities, with plans underway to extend the project to more locations.

To ensure sustainability, Mr Ogbuku said the commission had engaged a consultant to develop its carbon credit framework.

“NDDC aims to recover carbon credits generated through these projects, further contributing to environmental sustainability,” he added.

The NDDC boss urged Niger Delta youths to continue supporting Federal Government policies and programmes, reiterating Mr Tinubu’s commitment to the development of the region.

“President Tinubu has the best interests of the Niger Delta people at heart, and we urge everyone to collaborate in realising these goals,” Mr Ogbuku said.

(NAN)