Niger Delta Minister, and ex-governor of Akwa Ibom State, Chief Godswill Akpabio, has come out to say that the Niger Delta region must continue to be peaceful for development to happen.

He revealed this as he received party leaders under the aegis of Niger Delta APC Youth Leaders at the Ministry of Niger Delta on Friday.

According to Akpabio, he plans to increase youth-focused projects in the Niger Delta that would keep the youths busy and facilitate the growth of the region.

He added that his reign as minister will guarantee the highest levels of development for Niger Delta and its youths.

His words, “The Niger Delta is dear to me and I am here to ensure the highest levels of development for the region and its youths. It is a sad thing that the region has not witnessed a level of development commensurate with the funds that have been spent by the Niger Delta Ministry and the Niger Delta Development Commission since they were set up.

“Niger Deltans still move around in canoes and on bicycles while those who were in charge of this Ministry and the NDDC flew in personal private jets. With the backing of President Muhammadu Buhari, I am working to ensure that Niger Delta people see tangible results in this new Next Level era. This is also why we are rejuvenating the NDDC through the forensic audit. We expect the new NDDC headquarters to be ready within three months and that will free up more funds to be invested in development prgrammes for youths and other disadvantaged groups in the region,”

“We must forge a bond of peace across the Niger Delta by doing the right thing as that isthe only way to ensure speedy development. I also urge you young people to insist on due process even if immediate outcomes appear not to be in your favour. I believe in the youths and I believe also that there are leadership potentials in every young person. I will do my utmost to nurture your potentials.”