‘Find Lasting Solutions To Niger Delta’s Socio-Economic Difficulties, Okonjo-Iweala Tells NDDC

 Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO) Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has called on the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to address the region’s socio-economic challenges with lasting solutions, a message delivered via a virtual address on July 12, 2025, during the NDDC’s 25th anniversary. 

Okonjo-Iweala, a former Nigerian finance minister, emphasized tackling poverty, unemployment, and infrastructure deficits, which affect over 30 million people in the oil-rich region. She advocated for integrating trade policies and skill development to boost economic resilience.

She highlighted the NDDC’s Project HOPE, enrolling 3.2 million youths, as a step forward but urged a focus on sustainable industries like agriculture and technology. Critics argue her global perspective overlooks local corruption, while supporters praise her expertise. 

The NDDC’s managing director, Samuel Ogbuku, welcomed the advice, promising alignment with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. The address, watched by 200 stakeholders online, has sparked discussions on regional development strategies.