NDDC urges Niger Delta communities to protect public infrastructure

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has urged Niger Delta communities and traditional rulers to take collective responsibility in protecting public infrastructure from vandalism and theft. NDDC Managing Director Dr Samuel Ogbuku emphasized that while the government provides basic amenities, communities must safeguard them.

Ogbuku stated that destroying public infrastructure harms both communities and individuals. He pointed out that when public infrastructure is vandalized, money intended for new projects is diverted to repair the damaged assets, thereby stalling infrastructure progress. Ogbuku advised community leaders to view development in their area as their own property, and that everyone must protect it against vandalism and theft.

He stressed the need to create awareness and educate citizens about the communal ownership of government projects. The event, held in Port Harcourt, aimed at informing and educating everyone about the importance of taking care of government investments. NDDC Director of Community and Rural Development, Theophilus Alagoa, warned that vandalizing, destroying, or stealing government projects is a serious crime and an act of economic sabotage.

He emphasized that vandalism, theft, and deliberate destruction of public facilities pose serious threats to sustainable development.