ASABA/Nigeria: Ndokwa political leaders and stakeholders have been urged to unite around a common purpose in order to accelerate development, equity and inclusive growth across Ndokwa land.
The call was made by media practitioners of Ndokwa extraction under the umbrella of the Ndokwa Media Professionals Forum, following extensive deliberations on issues of public interest and development affecting the Ndokwa Nation.
In a communiqué issued at the end of the Forum’s meeting and signed by its Chairman, Mr. Barth Ozah, and Secretary, Mr. Odili Ogochukwu, the practitioners stressed that unity of purpose among leaders remains critical to advancing the collective interest of the Ndokwa people, irrespective of political or partisan differences.
The Forum cautioned that persistent divisions and lack of a common front among Ndokwa leaders could undermine the region’s ability to attract development and effectively engage higher levels of government, urging stakeholders to rise above personal and political interests and speak with one voice on key issues.
On education and human capital development, the Forum expressed deep concern over the apparent inadequacy of facilities for the effective take-off of the Federal University of Health and Medical Sciences, Kwale. Members noted that the institution holds immense potential to transform healthcare training, research and economic activity in Ndokwa land, but warned that without urgent intervention, its promise could be jeopardised.
The Forum therefore called on the Delta State Government, the Ndokwa Local Government Councils and other relevant stakeholders to urgently provide the necessary infrastructure and enabling environment to ensure the successful commencement and long-term sustainability of the university.
On infrastructure development, the Forum highlighted the urgent need for comprehensive electrification across Ndokwa land, describing stable power supply as a catalyst for socio-economic growth, improved security and investment attraction.
While acknowledging ongoing and proposed road projects in the area, the Forum urged sustained commitment by government to the development, completion and maintenance of critical road networks, including the ongoing Ndemili–Utagbe-Uno Road, the Ogume–Abbi Road, the Aboh–Akarai Road and the Amai–Aragba Road, which it described as vital to mobility, commerce and community integration.
In its concluding remarks, the Ndokwa Media Professionals Forum reaffirmed its commitment to responsible journalism, constructive engagement and sustained advocacy in the promotion of good governance and development in Ndokwa land. It resolved to continue deploying the media as a tool for public enlightenment, accountability and progress in the overall interest of the Ndokwa people.